DITO Telecommunity has officially launched the BizBayani Awards, a nationwide initiative aimed at recognizing and empowering Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through connectivity, digital support, and business development opportunities.
The pilot launch was held on Tuesday, June 16, at Acacia Hotel Davao.
The program seeks to highlight Filipino entrepreneurs who demonstrate innovation, resilience, and meaningful impact in their communities.
DITO described MSMEs as “the backbone of the Philippine economy,” accounting for over 99% of registered businesses and employing a large share of the workforce.
In his speech, Gabby Cui, DITO BizBayan MSME head, said that the award aims to recognize entrepreneurs who build not only for profit but for their communities.
He added that many MSMEs operate in markets, home kitchens, and small workshops, yet play a vital role in driving economic activity and innovation.
Five award categories
As presented by Louie Rovillos, DITO community engagement lead, the BizBayani Awards will feature five major categories (nationwide) in partnership with industry and government organizations:
BizBayani in Growth Excellence Award (DTI); BizBayani in Digital Impact Award (GCash); BizBayani in Employer Experience Award (Jobstreet); BizBayani in Industry Impact Award (Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry); and BizBayani in Innovation Award (Philippine AI Business Association).
Public nominations opened on June 3 and will run until July 3, 2026. Anyone may nominate qualified MSMEs through the official website, and entrepreneurs may also nominate themselves.
Nominees must be Filipino-owned MSMEs operating for at least three years, with valid business registration and proof of operations. They will be evaluated based on innovation, growth, digital adoption, and community impact.
A panel review will be followed by public voting from July 8 to July 23, with final results determined through a 70% panel score and 30% public vote. The awarding ceremony is scheduled for August 12, 2026.
Rovillos said winners will receive a BizBayani trophy, a DITO Biz Kit that includes a smartphone and connectivity support, and a business learning trip to China for exposure to emerging technology and business ecosystems.
DITO officials said the initiative is designed not only to recognize MSMEs but also to provide tools that can help them scale and expand.
“Every small business has a story of sacrifice, growth, and risk-taking. Through this platform, we want to celebrate those stories,” Rovillos said.
Niño Nanquil, DITO regional vismin MSME head, said the initiative aims to strengthen support for Filipino entrepreneurs nationwide.
“Nominations for the BizBayani Awards are officially open. If you know an MSME that has shown resilience or transformed their community, we want to see them,” he said.
The company described the BizBayani Awards as a long-term initiative to celebrate entrepreneurship and strengthen digital inclusion among Filipino businesses.
