FOR YOUNG entrepreneur Ckyr Leonardo of Ckyr Sports Supplies Trading, joining the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bukidnon’s Kapatid Mentor ME (KMME) Program came at a turning point for his business.
Before enrolling, Leonardo already had the passion and determination but was uncertain about how he could grow his business sustainably. ”There were moments when I felt lost. At one point, I was already thinking of closing my business. I walked into the DTI office simply hoping to find guidance,” he recalled.
Through the KMME program, supported by PLDT and Smart through digital learning initiatives and AI tools, Leonardo gained valuable insights from DTI business counselors, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs who helped him strengthen his business strategy, financial planning, operations, and long-term direction. More importantly, he learned that entrepreneurship is a continuous journey of learning and innovation.
His business transformation brought him to the top of Batch 18 of the KMME Program, recognized for having the best Business Improvement Plan and the progress he made throughout the mentorship. As one of the program’s top three graduates, Leonardo received an AI-in-a-Box package from PLDT and Smart, which includes a premium ChatGPT subscription, Smart Turbo WiFi device, and Smart Prepaid load cards.
Leonardo shared that the digital tools will help him apply what he learned to his operations. “Thank you, PLDT and Smart, for the package. The Smart Turbo WiFi will support our daily store operations by connecting our devices so we can better manage online clients and improve marketing efforts. The ChatGPT subscription will help us with content creation, accounting, document preparation, and product knowledge,” he said.
As part of PLDT and Smart’s support for the KMME program, the Group also conducted AI learning sessions for the mentees, showing participants practical ways to use artificial intelligence to develop marketing materials, create social media content, and improve day-to-day business processes.
”Technology should empower entrepreneurs as much as possible. By supporting initiatives like DTI’s KMME mentorship program, we hope to arm MSMEs with the tools and skills to help them grow their businesses and become more competitive in this digital economy,” said Judee Chaves, Mindanao Relations Head of PLDT and Smart.
This marks the second consecutive year that PLDT and Smart have partnered with DTI Bukidnon to help equip MSMEs with digital skills and technology, supporting more resilient and competitive local businesses.
“PLDT and Smart have brought to life the very heart of the KMME-MME Program—the ‘Big Brother, Small Brother’ approach. They did not merely support the program from the sidelines; they walked alongside our entrepreneurs every step of the way. By sharing their expertise, encouraging innovation, and nurturing their potential, they helped transform knowledge into opportunity and aspirations into achievable goals,” said DTI Bukidnon Provincial Director Famelah Racquel Villanueva.
Under its Konekted for Livelihood advocacy, the AI-in-a-Box program is PLDT and Smart’s digital empowerment initiative that equips communities and institutions with AI tools, connectivity, and practical skills to address real-world challenges. The initiative highlights the PLDT Group’s commitment to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.
