The Memorandum of Understanding for this initiative was signed on July 19, 2024, marking a significant step towards growth in the country’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) sector. At the signing ceremony, Unilever Philippines Chairman & CEO Fredy Ong highlighted the critical role that sari-sari stores play in the nation’s economy. He emphasized that the ‘Tindahan Mo e-Level Up Mo!’ program is in perfect alignment with Unilever’s commitment to enhancing livelihoods through its own ‘Kabisig Summit ‘program.
‘Kabisig Summit’ is Unilever Philippines’ flagship training program for mom-and-pop stores designed to equip participants with fundamental business management skills, instill practical discipline in entrepreneurship, develop customer engagement, and help them navigate through business challenges. It has been instrumental in creating a community of experts and co-learners as they upskill through lessons and tools necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital economy. Learnings from the ‘Kabisig Summit’ will be shared with a wider audience through Unilever’s partnership with DTI.
DTI Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual lauded the partnership, stating that such collaborations are pivotal for the socio-economic advancement of the Philippines. He expressed his confidence that the ‘Tindahan Mo e-Level Up Mo!’ program will serve as a catalyst for other industries to follow suit in supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
The program is expected to roll out various workshops, training sessions, and digital literacy campaigns, all aimed at transforming sari-sari stores into modern, sustainable, and resilient businesses. With a focus on digitalization, the initiative will provide store owners with access to e-commerce platforms, digital payment systems, and online inventory management tools, thereby opening new avenues for growth and profitability.
Unilever experts Wence Wenceslao, Digital Hub Lead - Beauty & Wellbeing Southeast Asia is set to share insights on Digital Marketing while Mae Alegado, Customer Development Sr. Capability Building Manager, will be leading the session on Product Assortment and Digital Ordering.