DTI and Smart Join Forces to Digitally Empower 1 Million Sari-Sari Stores

MANILA — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has partnered with Smart Communications, Inc. to provide digital training to 1 million sari-sari store owners nationwide as part of an effort to enhance their business operations and resilience.

According to Philippines News Agency, the collaboration focuses on the Tindahan Mo, e-Level Up Mo Program, which is designed to educate store owners about digital solutions, financial management, marketing strategies, and sustainable practices. This initiative will feature free webinars accessible through DTI’s official Facebook and YouTube channels. DTI Undersecretary Jose Edgardo Sunico highlighted the program’s goal to transform these micro retailers into more resilient, innovative, and competitive enterprises in the digital marketplace.

Smart, along with digital payments provider Maya, will contribute specifically to Module 3 of the program, which aims to expand the store owners’ capital using digital products and services like Smart e-load. Smart has previously supported DTI’s initiatives in various regions, including Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and Leyte, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to the sari-sari store sector, particularly in the distribution of Smart electronic load.

Smart vice president Jac Bocalan expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting the significant role sari-sari stores play in Smart’s distribution network since 2003. The initiative is also expected to introduce store owners to the benefits of using digital tools such as smartphones, which can potentially increase their income through new business opportunities.

The DTI launched its sari-sari store advancement program last May, aiming to support the backbone of local community commerce with the latest advancements in digital technology.