BUKIDNON, Philippines (Sep 2026) — Facing the harsh reality of potentially closing his store, Ckyr Leonardo walked into a local government office looking for a lifeline for Ckyr Sports Supplies Trading.
That single decision led him to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bukidnon Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program, an initiative that transformed his business strategy and saved his sports supply shop from shutting down.
Finding a path forward through mentorship
Before enrolling, Leonardo had passion but lacked clear direction for sustainable growth. Through the KMME program, supported by PLDT and Smart through digital learning initiatives, he gained critical guidance from business counselors and fellow entrepreneurs.
The mentorship covered vital aspects of running an enterprise, including financial planning, daily operations, and long-term strategic direction. Leonardo ultimately finished at the top of Batch 18, earning recognition for drafting the best Business Improvement Plan.
Putting AI tools to work for local MSMEs
As one of the program’s top three graduates, Leonardo received an AI-in-a-Box package provided by PLDT and Smart. The kit includes a premium ChatGPT subscription, a Smart Turbo WiFi device, and Smart Prepaid load cards to assist his shop’s daily operations.
Leonardo explained that the connectivity helps his team manage online clients and boost marketing efforts, while ChatGPT assists with content creation, accounting, document preparation, and product knowledge.
Empowering Pinoy entrepreneurs
As part of their support for the KMME program, PLDT and Smart also conducted AI learning sessions for participants. These hands-on classes showed local business owners how artificial intelligence can streamline marketing materials, social media posts, and daily workflows.
Judee Chaves, Mindanao Relations Head of PLDT and Smart, explained that technology should empower local business owners with practical skills to stay competitive in the digital economy.
DTI Bukidnon Provincial Director Famelah Racquel Villanueva praised the collaborative effort, noting that having private sector partners walk alongside local entrepreneurs helps turn business aspirations into achievable goals.
