CTU mountain campus receives digital tools, PlantSmart kits from PSF

PLDT Inc. and Smart Communications, Inc.’s social outreach arm PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), in collaboration with Cebu Diversified Advocacy Cooperative (CEDACO), extended support to Cebu Education and agriculture grow hand in hand at Cebu Technological University. PLDT-Smart Foundation, together with CEDACO, has donated digital learning tools, office supplies, and #PlantSmart gardening kits to CTU Cebu City Mountain Campus, helping students enhance their learning while promoting sustainable agriculture. The initiative supports future agricultural leaders with better access to technology and practical resources that empower both education and local communities.

GCash brings 'Wais Tindera Caravan' to Cebu, empowering MSMEs with financial tools and responsible borrowing

Growing a business starts with making smarter financial decisions. More than 200 Cebu entrepreneurs joined the GCash Wais Tindera Caravan to learn financial literacy, responsible borrowing, and digital business tools that can help MSMEs grow sustainably. The initiative also promotes safer alternatives to informal lending while encouraging digital adoption.

Epson Opens New Cebu Office, Strengthening Presence in the Visayas

Strengthening its footprint in the Visayas, Epson Philippines Corporation has expanded its regional operations with a new Cebu hub designed to bring solutions closer to businesses outside Metro Manila. The move signals the company’s growing focus on regional markets as demand rises for imaging, printing, and digital technologies across key provincial growth centers.

Located within Cebu Business Park, the new office features a Solution Center that allows clients and partners to experience Epson technologies in a more hands-on setting. Beyond expanding service coverage, the facility is positioned to support localized engagement, training, and collaboration as Epson deepens its presence in one of the country’s most dynamic business environments.

Jollibee brings joy across Cebu during Sinulog season

Cebu came alive with even more smiles as Jollibee joined the Sinulog season, spreading joy among families, tourists, and devotees during one of the country’s most meaningful celebrations. From warm welcomes to festive surprises, the brand became part of the shared moments that made the season extra special.

Throughout the festivities, Jollibee brought joyful experiences to key spots across Cebu, from airport activations and store celebrations to lively mall performances and parade highlights, showing how simple moments of happiness can bring people together during a time rooted in faith, culture, and community.

Cebu journalists sharpen AI, media training skills

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes newsrooms, journalists are exploring ways to adapt. In Cebu, local journalists and communications educators gathered for a full-day workshop designed to equip them with AI skills, while reinforcing the values of ethical and responsible journalism.

Cebu community journalists participate in a workshop to strengthen their AI skills and digital safety practices.

“This workshop aims to help address pressing concerns and challenges which community journalists face daily in their work, such as digital safety, mental wellness, as well as challenges brought forth by AI and its impact on the newsroom,” said Atty. Maria Jane Paredes of STET–Women in Cebu Media.

The event was organized through a collaboration between STET–Women in Cebu Media, International Media Support (IMS), the Asian Center for Journalism (ACFJ) at the Ateneo de Manila University, PLDT Inc. (PLDT), and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart).

Journalist, technologist, and media advisor Jaemark Tordecilla offered participants a deeper insight into AI and how it can support journalists in their daily newsroom work, including tasks like summarizing information, generating story ideas, and transforming content, among others. The discussion underscored that, while AI can enhance efficiency and creativity, it still requires responsible use and careful review for accuracy and fairness.

Participants also learned practical tips and tools from Innopub Media Co-founder Max Limpag to protect their data online and ensure safety in the digital space. Limpag stressed that digital security is not just a technical concern but a crucial responsibility for journalists to establish and maintain trust.

Moreover, the workshop featured Bidlisiw Foundation Inc. Executive Director Pamela Uy, who emphasized the importance of self-awareness and mindfulness in taking care of one’s mental well-being. This is essential in the field of journalism, where the work is demanding and constantly evolving.

“We're committed to empowering our stakeholders, and that includes the media. Hopefully, this workshop helps journalists become more resilient in the digital age,” said Roby Alampay, FVP and head of Public Engagement and Corporate Communications Group at PLDT and Smart.

This effort underscores PLDT and Smart’s commitment to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. 

Cisco and PLDT Enterprise Champion a New Era of Work at Tech Week PH Cebu

The future of work is already unfolding, and it’s more connected, secure, and intelligent than ever before. This was the message of Cisco’s APJC Leader, Partner Networking Specialist, Pavel Svatos, during the second leg of Tech Week PH 2025, where PLDT Enterprise gathered business leaders, tech visionaries, and public sector stakeholders to explore how digital innovation can drive inclusive growth across the regions.

Bantayan communities, PLDT, Smart step up mission to keep kids safe online

The rise of AI-generated child sexual abuse materials — where predators use artificial intelligence (AI) to manipulate innocent images or create fake online identities to target children — is a deeply alarming digital threat and trend.

Taking urgent notice of this disturbing rise in online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC) content, PLDT Inc (PLDT) and Smart Communications, Inc (Smart) are stepping up efforts with partners to protect children through awareness campaigns, community education, and stronger digital safeguards.

OMODA and JAECOO Philippines opens first local dealership and showroom in Cebu

Global automotive brand OMODA and JAECOO Motor Philippines has officially opened its first local dealership and showroom located at the GMall along A.Soriano Avenue in Cebu City.

USANA Empowers Malapascua Island with Garden Towers for Sustainable Nutrition

USANA Foundation has installed over 100 garden towers on Malapascua Island, Cebu, providing sustainable nutrition and help end malnutrition. Each tower yields approximately 3,000 additional servings of produce annually. These towers can help generate income, self-reliance and collaboration between communities.

We all can contribute by spreading awareness, donation or even volunteer work and help make a difference!

PLDT and Smart amplify Grand Sinulog 2024

PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) ramped up the splendor at the Philippines’ grandest festival, Sinulog, in support of the local government of Cebu City and Sinulog Foundation, Inc.

Cebuanos and tourists alike celebrated the 459th Fiesta of Señor Santo Niño in full swing, with the city buzzing with parades, concerts, pageantry, and spirited competitions.

“We are committed to honoring the rich heritage and passions of the Cebuanos. We believe in fostering a relationship with our loyal subscribers that extends beyond services - valuing their individuality and catering to their interests. Our aim is to be a part of their journey, not just during the festival, but in all aspects of their digital lifestyle,” said Melvin Consunji Nubla, FVP and Head of Go-To-Market and Subscriber Management at Smart. 

PLDT and Smart fortified their communication and connectivity services in anticipation of Sinulog, enabling attendees to capture and share memorable moments from the festival.

Lovey Genoguin-Ascher, an Overseas Filipino Worker on vacation from Germany expressed her delight due to the reliability of Smart’s signal during the festival. “Smart’s signal was really good. We were able to stay connected and meet with my family members at our designated meeting points. We were also able to share photos and videos on social media,” said Ascher. 

In addition, PLDT and Smart equipped Cebu media entities and the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño de Cebu with fast and reliable wired and data connectivity, facilitating the smooth livestreaming of the festival’s mardi gras, masses, solemn foot processions.

PLDT and Smart also set up booths at designated points around the city, providing immediate assistance to attendees, ensuring connectivity needs were met throughout the festival. 

In collaboration with local partner establishments such as restaurants and bars, Smart also offered exclusive perks and discounts to loyal customers, part of continuing efforts to give back to subscribers and enhance their festival experience. 

Overseeing Smart’s participation in Visayan festivities for nearly a decade, Lloyd Genesiran, Junior Manager and Sinulog Festival Lead of Smart Go-to-Market and Subscriber Management shared, “Our goal has always been to make Smart a meaningful part of Cebu City and its constituents. It's truly rewarding to see our hard work pay off and see the value we add to their Sinulog experience.” 

Melvin Consunji Nubla, FVP and Head of Smart Go-To-Market and Subscriber Management, and Lloyd Genesiran, Junior Manager and Sinulog Festival Lead of Smart Go-to-Market and Subscriber Management pose for a photo during the Sinulog 2024 Grand Festival.

PLDT and Smart ensured the spirit of the Sinulog Festival was shared with everyone, on-site and online, part of broader initiatives connecting Filipinos, and as aligned with the Group's commitment to the Government's overall digitalization thrust.

Seniors in Cebu join PLDT, Smart and PNPh’s Digital Literacy and Mental Health Awareness Training

PLDT Inc. and its wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) have partnered with the local government of Cebu City and Lapu-Lapu City, and Passerelles numériques Philippines (PNPh) in upskilling over 200 senior citizens on basic smartphone usage, internet safety, and mental health awareness.

 

Smart ignites Grand Sinulog comeback

The Philippines’ grandest festival, Sinulog, returned with a bang after a two-year hiatus with PLDT Inc.’s wireless arm Smart Communications, Inc.’s (Smart) full support and partnership with the local government of Cebu City and Sinulog Foundation, Inc.

In keeping with tradition, Cebuanos honored the 458th Fiesta of Señor Santo Niño with lively parades, concerts, pageantry, and competitions.

Festival goers flock to Cebu City SRP to witness the Sinulog 2023 Ritual Dance Showdown

“We are thankful for our partnership with the Local Government of Cebu City and Sinulog Foundation Inc., which allowed Smart to be part of the grand comeback of Sinulog. This gave us an opportunity to bring an epic festival experience to both locals and tourists, and offer Smart subscribers perks and rewards for their loyalty. We also boosted our SIM Registration efforts by providing on-ground assistance via booths to keep them connected,” said Lloyd Genesiran, Junior Manager and Sinulog Festival Lead of Smart Go-to-Market and Subs Management.

Smart powered up various activities such as the Grand Sinulog 2023 Ritual Showdown, Ms. Sinulog Festival Queen 2023, and the private events at Sinulog Night, among several other lined-up events.

Smart's reliable wireless connectivity also enabled media entities and festival goers to livestream the events, spreading the Sinulog fun and cheer across the world in real-time.

An OFW from California, San Francisco joins Sinulog Festival after 5 years and livestreams the event through Smart’s reliable connectivity.

“It has been five years since I last joined the Sinulog Festival, and the good thing about the availability and reliability of Smart’s network is that it enabled me to relay my experiences through livestreaming. I also got a lot of positive reactions and comments from my friends and family abroad who were unable to personally join the festival. At least they were able to celebrate with us through my real-time video updates,” said Rudolfo Lara, an Overseas Filipino Worker in San Francisco, California.

Anticipating the massive number of festival goers, Smart also seized the opportunity to invite its customers to register their SIMs by putting up more accessible SIM Registration booths around Cebu City.

A senior citizen seeks assistance for SIM registration from a Smart Agent manning the booth at Plaza Independencia.

Delilah Escobar, a senior citizen from barangay Lorega expressed her delight upon completing her SIM registration at Smart’s booth at Plaza Independencia. “I’m happy to find SIM Registration booths around the city to assist senior citizens like me who have a hard time registering their SIMs since no one can help me at home. Thank you, Smart, for this wonderful initiative.”

As mandated by the SIM Registration Act, which aims to curb the proliferation of text scams and other mobile phone-aided criminal activities, Smart and TNT are accelerating the deployment of SIM Registration booths and touchpoints all over the country, by collaborating with LGUs, partner stores, and regional and provincial distributors. The touchpoints offer assistance to Smart and TNT customers needing information on how to register their SIM, as well as provide physical assistance to customers with special circumstances – seniors, persons with disabilities, those still using basic phones.

Smart also made available its SIM Registration portal http://www.smart.com.ph/simreg on December 27, 2022. Through this platform, millions of Smart and TNT customers have been able to conveniently register their SIMs.

Smart is also making SIM Registration more convenient for postpaid subscribers, who simply need to confirm the personal information and IDs they submitted for their postpaid plan application. To do this confirmation, subscribers just need to text YES to 5858. They shall then receive a confirmation message from Smart upon successful SIM Registration.

All Smart and TNT customers are advised to register their SIMs before the deadline set by law, to keep these SIMs active and to help fight against scammers and predators online.

For more information about SIM Registration, visit http://www.smart.com.ph/Pages/simreg-faqs for Smart subscribers, and http://www.tntph.com/sim-reg for TNT subscribers.

PLDT, Smart enable 16th annual youth journalists’ forum

Over 260 journalism and communication students from eight universities and colleges in Cebu participated in SunStar Cebu’s “Reaching Out to Future Journalists” forum, which also marks the 30th anniversary of Cebu Press Freedom Week.

Shopee partners with Cebu LGUs to help local MSMEs bring their businesses online

Shopee Philippines Seller Communications and Education Lead Mia Mendoza, Shopee Philippines Seller Coach Mik Baluyot, Ithra Jewelry shop owner Hilaire Labalan, and BigGrocer Food & Grocery shop owner Azela Jane Taladua at the Shopee Kumustahan event in Cebu 

Driven by its mission to make e-commerce for everyone, Shopee partners with local government units (LGUs) in Cebu to help micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the region for its second iteration of the Shopee University Roadshow and Shopee Kumustahan. These two events educated MSMEs on how to take their businesses online, and kickstart their venture into e-commerce.

Smart powers up Cebu with faster, better, stronger service in new normal

PLDT Inc.’s wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has culminated its months-long series of Cebu events in Mandaue City which highlighted its newest campaign dubbed “Smart5G Power Up Cebu”--- offering faster, better, stronger services and programs to support retailers and subscribers.

ePLDT launches first disaster recovery facility in Cebu

Manila, Philippines – ePLDT, the ICT arm of PLDT Enterprise and the premier provider of holistic digital business solutions in the Philippines, recently launched its first disaster recovery (DR) facility in Cebu.

Smart provides self-care channels for Cebu City customers in ECQ

With Cebu City under enhanced community quarantine once again, customers of Smart Communications, Inc. in the city are being encouraged to use Smart’s various self-care channels for service requests and other needs such as bills payments. 

ACER TECHonomy Forum: Boosting Cebu’s economic potential through technology

Technology adoption and transformation plays a vital role in boosting the competitiveness of local businesses and industries particularly the burgeoning Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises sector. This is the clear message of Acer Philippines' TECHonomy Forum, held in Cebu for its second stop after a successful launch in Manila recently.