PLDT-SME Nation brings message of connectivity and profitability to Cebu

The PLDT SME Nation’s message of connectivity and profitability for business was one of the main talking points at the 17th Cebu Business Month held recently at the Cebu International Convention Center.

CBM's theme, "Converge in Cebu," brought attention to the southern capital's emerging role as a convergence point, "where every business interests meet and interact for an exchange of ideas, information, goods, services, and resources." The month-long event was organized by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce.

"CBM and SME are united in promoting the development of SMEs (small and medium-scale enterprise) through awareness and education through these events, and in equipping them with the necessary tools enabling them to turn technology into profit," said Gabby Cui, SME Nation's Community Consultancy Head.

In addition, this year’s CBM emphasized business and technology as crucial partners in launching Cebu as a major investment haven in the country.

The CBM featured forums, conferences, and a grand exhibit focusing on three industry thrusts: information communication technology (ICT), tourism, and SME development.

Likewise, Philippine Retailers’ Association president Jay Aldeguer of Island Souvenirs Inc. welcomed the message of technology-enabled entrepreneurs.

As a convergence point and future investment haven, Cebu hopes that local businesses will gain valuable lessons to achieve global competitiveness.

And to help entrepreneurs achieve that, modern PLDT technology provides various business solutions that help improve overall efficiency and profitability. SME Nation Innoports or exhibit booths at the CBM showcased the most cutting-edge business solutions for business owners to help achieve that goal.

There’s PLDT SNAP (Simplified Networks on Auto-Pilot), for computerizing or upgrading existing businesses, and SWUP (Shops.Work UnPlugged), a wireless network service that provides real-time data monitoring for retail operations. PLDT also offers valuable online presence to virtually any business through its MyDSL Biz package and Sitebuilder—a fast and easy-to-use website building tool. Business owners were given a "hands on" feel of how PLDT's networking solutions can help improve their business process.

In a keynote address, SME Nation head Kat Luna-Abelarde explained that all these solutions are part of PLDT's commitment to bring technology-enabling solutions to business communities nationwide.

She further advised entrepreneurs to "look to an ICT partner with a vision for the future and the financial, human, and technological resources to engineer that vision into concrete solutions. A partner who is capable of innovating technology and initiating trends should be your best bet. Abelarde adds that “The last thing you want to happen is to form an alliance with a provider who cannot evolve as your needs change. Or worse, one who cannot assure you that they will be there when your future arrives."