Pasig City, Philippines | November 18, 2025 — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has strengthened its nationwide digitalization push for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Converge ICT Solutions Inc.’s SME Solutions unit.
The partnership is designed to expand MSMEs’ access to reliable internet connectivity, digital onboarding support, and capacity-building programs—key components of DTI’s broader initiative to prepare Filipino enterprises for an increasingly digital and competitive market environment.
MSMEs make up 99.6% of all registered businesses in the country, yet many continue to face barriers to adopting digital tools, advanced e-commerce platforms, cloud technologies, and responsible AI use. Through this collaboration, DTI aims to accelerate entrepreneurs’ digital readiness across regions and industry sectors.
DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista, Supervising Head of the Competitiveness and Innovation Group, underscored the urgency of improving MSME access to technology:
“Our goal is to push for MSMEs to embrace technology and digitalization, and we believe that this partnership with Converge strengthens our push. Through this initiative, we can give our entrepreneurs not just access to tools but a fair chance to compete and succeed in the global market.”
She added that adopting digital solutions is now an essential requirement for business survival:
“Digitalization of our MSMEs is no longer optional but absolutely essential in today’s highly digital business environment.”
Under the MOU, Converge will support DTI-led modernization programs—particularly those helping MSMEs and startups adopt digital solutions, AI-powered platforms, and other emerging technologies. This includes offering curated connectivity packages and digital tools tailored for business growth and operational efficiency.
Converge Senior Vice President for SME Group Dindo Marzan expressed full support for the government’s digital empowerment initiatives:
“Every business relies not only on effective and efficient connectivity but also easy-to-use and practical digital solutions. We are honored to support the DTI in ensuring that MSMEs—wherever they are—gain access to the technology and assistance they need to grow sustainably.”
The partnership reinforces DTI’s long-term goal of building an inclusive digital ecosystem—one that nurtures startups, modernizes traditional MSMEs, and ensures no Filipino entrepreneur is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey.
