Grab Philippines has launched “Grab Asenso: A Digital Diskarte Program” — a nationwide initiative aimed at fast-tracking the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the transport and service sectors outside Metro Manila.
The program combines a multi-city Learning Caravan with the deployment of mobile-first tools via the GrabMerchant app, offering MSMEs real-time, smartphone-based training and plug-and-play infrastructure to digitize operations.
Targeting the 99.59 percent of Philippine businesses classified as MSMEs — many of which remain early in their digital journey — the program responds to the country’s rapid shift to digital payments, now accounting for over 57 percent of retail transaction volume.
Endorsed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and supported by LGUs, the inaugural rollout begins in Angeles City and will expand to key cities including Cavite, Baguio, Bohol, and Cagayan de Oro.
Key features include:
- Mobile-first learning modules on digital marketing, AI basics, and financial planning tailored for MSMEs;
- Integrated merchant tools such as Tap & Scan to Pay and a built-in AI assistant for business insights;
- SoftPOS pilot in Q4 2025, turning phones into payment terminals with QR PH and NFC compatibility.
Grab VP for Cities CJ Lacsican emphasized that “Grab Asenso goes beyond seminars,” providing both skills and tools to help small businesses scale quickly and efficiently. DICT’s Emmy Lou Versoza-Delfin praised the program as a model of “digital bayanihan”, aligning with the government’s push for inclusive digital livelihood.
By lowering adoption barriers and simplifying access to technology, Grab Asenso aims to empower transport sector MSMEs and other small entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital economy.
