PLDT, Smart Continue to Empower Davao's Cacao Industry through Digital Farmers Program

​A year after PLDT and its wireless unit, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), forged a partnership with Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA), the partnership continues to make significant strides in empowering cacao farmers in the Davao region in Mindanao.

​The Digital Farmers Program, developed in partnership with the Department of Agriculture-Agriculture Training Institute (DA-ATI), was presented to cacao farmers in order to improve their mobile literacy and familiarize them with various digital tools and apps. These technologies aim to increase agricultural production and enhance lives, particularly for cacao farmers in the Davao region, the country's top cacao producer. The Davao region contributes 80% of the country's total cacao production, according to DA-Davao.

"PLDT and Smart are committed to ensuring that Davao's cacao farmers and small businesses can thrive in the digital economy. Equipping them with digital tools, knowledge, and sustainable farming practices will not only empower them to grow their businesses but also enable them to make even greater contributions to the region's agricultural sector," said Stephanie V. Orlino, PLDT and Smart's Head of Stakeholder Management.

Since 2024, the partnership has helped over 300 cacao farmers in remote areas adopt modern cultivation methods. Participants learned how to utilize mobile technologies to monitor crops, handle finances, and track market movements. MEDA supported this program by offering specialized training in sustainable farming practices and resource optimization, guaranteeing a comprehensive approach to agricultural growth.

"Learning about these applications is a great help to us farmers as it enables us to monitor weather conditions accurately, allowing us to make informed decisions on the best time to plant and the most suitable areas for cultivation," shared Lizabeth Gabonada of the MIEDECO cooperative.

The success of the Digital Farmers Program demonstrates the transformational potential of technology and collaboration, paving the path for a more resilient and sustainable agriculture industry in the Philippines. The partnership has also received recognition from numerous international and local award-giving bodies for its remarkable teamwork and effect, emphasizing the necessity of digital inclusion in modernizing agriculture.

PLDT and Smart continue to promote digital inclusion by extending livelihood options and promoting food security across the country via their network and innovation. This program also supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).