The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has partnered with Mastercard to help Filipino micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) strengthen their digital capabilities, as smaller businesses face growing pressure to adapt to online commerce and electronic payments.
Under a memorandum of understanding, the DTI’s E-Commerce Bureau (ECB) and Mastercard will identify initiatives to expand businesses’ access to digital technologies and payment solutions, improve e-commerce skills and help entrepreneurs use online tools to reach customers and grow their operations.
The partnership aims to address barriers that extend beyond simply getting businesses online. For smaller firms, adopting digital commerce can also require practical knowledge of payment systems, customer engagement, transaction security and the day-to-day management of online sales.
“Many small businesses are already selling online. What some still need is greater confidence in accepting payments and engaging with customers safely and securely. By working with Mastercard, we hope to bridge that gap and help them get there,” said Atty. Eryl Royce R. Nagtalon, DTI ECB director.
Digital tools can help MSMEs broaden their customer base, streamline operations and reach markets beyond their immediate communities. However, the commercial benefits depend on whether business owners can integrate these tools into their operations and use them securely.
Jason Crasto, Mastercard Philippines country manager, said digitalization can give MSMEs more opportunities to reach customers, improve efficiency and compete in an increasingly connected marketplace. He added that the company aims to provide both access to digital payment solutions and the knowledge needed to use them effectively.
The collaboration will combine the DTI’s experience in e-commerce development and enterprise support with Mastercard’s expertise in payments technology. Planned initiatives include practical guidance, capacity-building opportunities and access to relevant digital payment solutions.
The agreement supports the DTI’s broader efforts to develop a safe, resilient and competitive e-commerce ecosystem. Its impact, however, will depend on how effectively the initiatives reach businesses with varying levels of digital readiness and translate training and access into sustained adoption.
The next challenge for MSMEs is turning digital participation into measurable business growth.
