By Rowena T. Cruz (Standing 5th) Mulanay Vice Mayor Jay Castilleja; (Standing 6th from left) Mulanay Mayor Aris L. Aguirre. (PLDT) MULA...
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| (Standing 5th) Mulanay Vice Mayor Jay Castilleja; (Standing 6th from left) Mulanay Mayor Aris L. Aguirre. (PLDT) |
MULANAY, Quezon—For decades, the town of Mulanay, Quezon, was best known for its cinematic portrayal as a struggling, underserved rural community in the 1996 film, Mulanay: Sa Pusod ng Paraiso. Today, that cinematic narrative has been replaced by a story of radical transformation. The first-class municipality is now cementing its new identity by leveraging technology and inclusion to build a modern, thriving paraiso for all its residents.
This complete reversal of the town's traditional image is most evident in its focus on empowering its most vulnerable sector: persons with disabilities (PWDs). Shedding the film’s depiction of a community reluctant to embrace modern ways, the town, led by Mayor Aristotle Aguirre, has made digital inclusion its development cornerstone.
The local government, through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) office, has partnered with ATRIEV, PLDT, and Smart to host the Digital Business Basics Training (DBBT). This collaboration, part of the PLDT Group’s IDEATe program, is designed to equip over 20 PWDs and their carers with the digital and entrepreneurial skills necessary to thrive in the modern economy.
Mayor Aguirre, whose commitment to the cause is personal, stated that the goal is to provide digital skills and opportunities "so they can start or grow their own businesses and thrive in today’s economy." He added, "As a father to a child with autism, I understand the challenges that persons with disabilities face."
The intensive eight-day workshop, supported by NORFIL Foundation, was split into two crucial modules: one focusing on business fundamentals like branding and essential costing strategies, and a second dedicated to mastery of digital tools and social media. For participants, this technological leap has proven transformative, removing the physical barriers that once limited their livelihoods to small, localized transactions.
Sergio Macarang, 55, a former construction foreman restricted by an accident, turned to selling medical masks and wipes. He found that the digital module immediately scaled his venture. "I was even able to design a logo using a mobile app," Macarang shared. "Through Facebook and other online platforms, I can now reach more people and potential customers. My business is no longer limited to foot traffic on our street — it has grown beyond our community."
The training also proved vital for Jerald Regencia, a 26-year-old beauty product reseller born with physical impairments. Selling online solved his fundamental logistical challenge. "Before, I had to personally visit my suki to show them new items... which wasn’t easy because of my condition," Regencia shared. "Now, I can just promote my products online and connect with them through messaging apps.”
The initiative proves that Mulanay has fully embraced its status as a modern, inclusive hub. As Stephanie Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement Team at PLDT and Smart, noted, “technology is a powerful equalizer.” This philosophy encapsulates Mulanay’s inspiring journey from its cinematic past to a genuine, modern hub committed to economic inclusion and growth.
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