By Nimfa L. Estrellado-Laurino A Converge SME Solutions presentation outlines the proposed partnership with the Quezon provincial govern...
By Nimfa L. Estrellado-Laurino
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| A Converge SME Solutions presentation outlines the proposed partnership with the Quezon provincial government during an October 19 meeting on expanded internet connectivity and digital livelihood programs for local entrepreneurs. (Quezon PIO) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon — Ten free Wi-Fi vending machines, affordable internet services and digital livelihood opportunities could become available to selected entrepreneurs in Quezon under a proposed partnership between the provincial government and Converge ICT Solutions Inc. The initiatives were discussed during an October 19 meeting aimed at improving connectivity, strengthening small businesses and expanding technology-based income opportunities across the province.
Provincial Administrator Manuel “Manny” Butardo, representing Governor Angelina “Doktora Helen” Tan, joined Livelihood and Enterprise Development Unit Head Lawrence Joseph Velasco in discussions with Converge representatives. Both parties explored potential programs to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) develop digital skills, improve operations and reach wider markets.
Among the proposals presented by Converge was the provision of 10 free Wi-Fi vending machines to selected beneficiaries, offering potential income-generating opportunities while expanding community internet access. The company also discussed affordable connectivity packages for participants in the province's STANd-Out sa Kalinisan on Wheels program, which supports ambulant vendors and small food businesses.
Converge further proposed providing free internet connectivity during selected and approved MSME activities, including business forums, trade fairs and livelihood events organized by the provincial government. Qualified resource speakers could also be made available to conduct training on technology adoption, digital marketing and business management.
Additional proposals included the Converge SME Kiosk Dress-Up and Palengke Stall Dress-Up initiatives, intended to improve the presentation and promotional visibility of participating businesses. Two public markets in Quezon were proposed for inclusion, while the SME Kiosk Dress-Up initiative remains subject to approval by the company's marketing and SME sales teams.
The October discussions followed an earlier meeting between the provincial Livelihood and Enterprise Development Unit and Converge on June 5, 2026, when both parties explored technology-based assistance for local MSMEs. Initial proposals included free training in digital marketing and artificial intelligence, alongside more affordable internet services for beneficiaries of provincial livelihood programs.
Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy has consistently advocated wider internet access, particularly for communities and smaller enterprises facing barriers to connectivity. In a February 2025 corporate statement on national digital transformation, Uy emphasized that reliable broadband services should be accessible to Filipinos regardless of their economic circumstances or location.
“I have always believed that access to quality connectivity is not a privilege of a few, but a necessity for all. We must take discussions on digital transformation seriously because, by 2030, the entire world will be digitally connected,” Uy said.
The company's broader SME development initiatives have also promoted cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and other digital tools to help smaller businesses become more competitive. During the June 2026 launch of its SheConnects digital empowerment campaign, Converge SME Solutions Vice President and Head of SME Business Development Heidi Garayblas highlighted the importance of making technological resources accessible to entrepreneurs.
“Driven by our Tech for Good philosophy, we are intentionally bridging the digital divide for female-led micro, small, and medium enterprises by turning complex innovations into accessible, game-changing growth tools. Through SheConnects campaign, we are delivering the essential technology insights that small businesses need to compete, scale, and thrive in today’s marketplace,” Garayblas said.
In Quezon, the proposed collaboration would complement existing provincial livelihood programs by connecting participating entrepreneurs with telecommunications services, technical training and potential additional income sources. The Livelihood and Enterprise Development Unit, headed by Velasco, implements programs involving entrepreneurship, skills enhancement and market access, providing an existing framework for coordinating the proposed initiatives.
The proposed partnership remains subject to further coordination and necessary approvals between the provincial government and Converge before implementation can proceed. Specific beneficiaries, the two public markets proposed for inclusion and the distribution schedule for the Wi-Fi vending machines have yet to be announced.
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