SM, through SM Store and SM Retail, in partnership with Mastercard, and SM Foundation have launched a new initiative aimed at empowering Filipino students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Through this collaboration, ten exceptional students from the Ten Outstanding STEM Students (TOSS) program will receive scholarship grants, along with access to critical digital learning tools, to help them succeed in today’s tech-driven world.

Mastercard will donate P100 to SM Foundation for every eligible transaction made using a Philippine-issued Mastercard at SM Stores. The funds raised between November 15 to 17 during the promo period will go directly toward supporting the scholarships for these students, enabling them to pursue higher education and build careers in the technology sector.

In addition to financial support, the program also seeks to address the digital divide in the Philippines. Previous efforts have already equipped thousands of students with e-tablets and established digital learning hubs in public schools. In 2023 alone, nearly 10,000 students benefited from these resources, gaining access to modern technology that enhances their educational experience.

According to a 2020 Department of Education survey, only 64% of Filipino students had access to smartphones, and just 55% had access to laptops—critical tools for participating in digital learning.

Five-year digital partnership to empower Baguio MSMEs with digital tools, innovation support, and marketing insights for tourism growth

Philippines, 22 November 2024 – Visa, a global leader in payments technology, has announced a strategic partnership with Thames International, a leading provider of education and training solutions, and the City Government of Baguio to enhance the digitalization of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises     (MSMEs). The partnership launched today with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

This five-year Digital Partnership Program by Visa Government Solutions, which partners with governments globally to drive economic growth and digitalization, aims to help MSMEs in Baguio City by driving acceptance of digital payment modes,, supporting innovation, sharing knowledge, and offering marketing guidance and Visa Destination Insights – which provides detailed spending and visitation data through interactive dashboards and reports –  to bolster the tourism sector.

Small businesses playing a key role in Baguio City’s local economy & tourism sector

As the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio is a key part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) alongside Cebu and Iloilo. Since 2017, Baguio has held the UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art title, joining a network of 246 cities globally committed to embedding creativity in sustainable urban development. Beyond its creative contributions, Baguio also boasts a flourishing MSME sector that fuels local growth and innovation.

As of August 2023, Baguio has 22,121 registered businesses, with 19,874 being microenterprises primarily in wholesale and retail^[1]. This underscores the significance of small businesses to the local economy and tourism, with MSMEs serving as vital tourism front liners.

Supporting MSMEs to innovate and tap into data to upskill them to drive tourism

The partnership includes initiatives to support MSME innovation and payment digitalization, enhance data insights, and upskill MSMEs in the digital economy. It aims to facilitate connections with technology providers and banks and ensure financial inclusion. The program will also develop a data-first tourism strategy, host workshops on data trends, and use Visa Destination Insights for policy development.

The partnership will also expand its reach through media and official channels, promote digital literacy across sectors, and connect Baguio City stakeholders with global Visa experts. This collaboration will enable peer exchange workshops and innovation study tours, allowing stakeholders to share best practices in building an inclusive, digitally empowered government.              

This is a significant step towards supporting Baguio City’s tourism sector by enhancing the overall visitor experience and promoting the city’s rich cultural heritage. Small businesses, essential to the local economy, will benefit from digital solutions and the growth of the creative economy, positioning Baguio City to attract more tourists and stimulate local business growth.    

Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Thames International and the City Government of Baguio to drive digitalization and support the creative economy. Tourism is a vital part of the Philippine economy, and we are delighted to provide our tools and resources to help drive the growth of the industry. Our partnership enhances the visitor experience, promotes cultural heritage, and empowers MSMEs to boost tourism and local businesses, creating a digitally and financially inclusive ecosystem for all in the Philippines.”

Get into the holiday spirit with the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas Christmas Village Fairs, a series of vibrant events hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to honor Filipino entrepreneurs and spread holiday cheer. These festive bazaars will transform select locations into lively marketplaces where visitors can explore a variety of unique gifts, holiday treats, and handcrafted products—each made with heart by local artisans and entrepreneurs. It’s the ultimate destination to make your Christmas merry and bright.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina A. Roque remarks, “We are thrilled to launch the first-ever DTI-Bagong Pilipinas Christmas Village Fairs, an initiative designed to empower our micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing them with a dedicated platform to reach a broader audience during the holiday season. This event not only connects MSMEs with consumers and institutional buyers but also strengthens their presence in the local market by celebrating the distinct charm of Filipino-made products. We invite everyone to join us at the Christmas Village Fairs to celebrate the season and support the incredible talent and creativity of Filipino entrepreneurs.”

Christmas Village Fair Schedule and Venues

• One Ayala, Makati City: November 18 to 22
• Megatrade Halls 2-3, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City: November 30 to December 4
• Filipino Village, Ayala Malls Manila Bay: December 1 to 22

What to Expect at the Christmas Village Fairs

Shop Local, Support Local: Carefully curated vendors from across the country bring an array of high-quality, one-of-a-kind items, from handmade fashion accessories and apparel to eco-friendly home décor and delightful food and beverages. Each product reflects the diversity and creativity of Filipino culture, offering gifts rich in heritage and heart.

Sustainable Gifts for a Greener Christmas: Many vendors focus on eco-friendly products, so shoppers can choose sustainably sourced and thoughtfully crafted items, including reusable gifts, organic beauty products, and upcycled décor, all committed to environmental responsibility.

Flavors of a Filipino Christmas: Enjoy Filipino delicacies offered by local food entrepreneurs. Discover artisanal treats and beverages that are perfect for gift-giving or sharing with loved ones during the holidays.

Personalize Your Holiday Gifts: Make your gifts truly unique with items not commonly found in stores, showing thought and care in the selection and making each present extra meaningful.

Holiday Wonderland Vibes: Step into a holiday wonderland! Each fair will be adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights, creating an inviting, picture-perfect setting for cherished moments with loved ones and Instagram-worthy captures.

Celebrate Filipino Creativity at the National Fiesta Haraya

Running alongside the Christmas Village Fairs, the DTI-Creative Industries Development Office (CIDO) will also host the National Fiesta Haraya (Philippine Creative Industries Festival). This festival celebrates the diversity and brilliance of Filipino creativity across regions in fields such as art, media, fashion, and technology.

Each day, regional representatives from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao will showcase immersive experiences across creative clusters like Digital Creative Services, Performing Arts, Cultural Heritage, Music, Digital Animation, and more. From interactive exhibitions and performances to educational workshops, Fiesta Haraya invites attendees to engage with the dynamic world of Filipino artistry and innovation.

Celebrate the Season, Support Filipino Small Businesses

The DTI-Bagong Pilipinas Christmas Village Fairs highlight the dedication and craftsmanship of local artisans and small businesses, offering a unique opportunity to support the Filipino community through thoughtful holiday shopping. By choosing local, fairgoers contribute to the growth of small businesses, bolstering the economy, and spreading the spirit of community.

Simultaneously, National Fiesta Haraya enriches the holiday celebration with its dynamic events, performances, and exhibitions, adding a creative and educational layer to the overall experience. This festive fusion of commerce and culture celebrates the heart of Filipino creativity while complementing the holiday ambiance of the Christmas Village Fairs.

“We invite everyone to join us in celebrating a truly Filipino Christmas this year,” says DTI-BMDPO Director Marievic Bonoan. “The Christmas Village Fairs, enhanced by the National Fiesta Haraya, offer a joyful way to come together, support local artisans, and make lasting memories. It’s an opportunity to experience the best of the Philippines during this special season.”

For more information about the trade fairs and other DTI-BMDPO programs, please follow DTI-BMDPO on Facebook (DTI.BMDPO), Instagram (dti.bmdpo), and Twitter (@DTI_BMDPO). For inquiries, you may also email BMDPO Director Marievic M. Bonoan at bmdpo@dti.gov.ph.