Aboitiz Foundation, Pilmico and Smart support Iligan-based cooperatives through Biyaheng Digiskarte Program

Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (AFI) launched the “Biyaheng Digiskarte” program in April 2021 which aids the digitalization of cooperatives and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This is an effort to alleviate agribusinesses from the impact of the health crisis by providing them with digital solutions and educating them on how they can use these in marketing their products online and boosting their profits. 

Since its launch, AFI has partnered with government and non-government organizations helping several beneficiaries nationwide. Among them is a partnership with the network provider, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) where they provide digital innovation packages to select beneficiaries.

Last January 26, 2022, AFI and Smart turned over ‘Digiskarte Packages to Pilmico Foods Corporation (Pilmico) in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte. This is for the benefit of Entre Workers Multipurpose Cooperative, a partner of AFI. 

Representatives of Pilmico and Entre Workers Multipurpose Cooperative received the Digiskarte Packages last January 26, 2022 in Iligan City

Gregory Greco Canoy, Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist of AFI and Pilmico said, “Embracing this digital landscape is a great benefit to Pilmico in conducting seamless and continuous transactions and selling of agricultural produce directly to the market. This will also help us encourage other cooperatives to pivot towards digital transformation.” 

Each ‘Digiskarte Package’ includes a Smart Infocast SMS broadcast system, LTE handset, tablet, mobile hotline, retailer kit, and ICT training. Through this kit, Entre Workers Multipurpose Cooperative will now be able to scale up their services online. It will help the fast-track their agribusinesses’ growth online, access digital marketplaces, and make transactions online.