In a celebration that brought together government leaders, industry partners, and media, DITO Telecommunity and DITO BizBayan officially launched the DITO BizBayani Awards at Revel at the Palace. The program is designed to honor the resilience, creativity, and everyday heroism of Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), the backbone of the Philippine economy.
More than just a recognition platform, the BizBayani Awards aims to elevate the stories of entrepreneurs who turn small beginnings into meaningful impact within their communities. With MSMEs making up over 99% of registered businesses in the country and employing the majority of Filipino workers, DITO is placing the spotlight on the people shaping neighborhoods, powering local economies, and redefining modern Filipino entrepreneurship.
At the heart of the initiative is a belief that every small business carries a story worth telling, stories of sacrifice, persistence, risk-taking, and reinvention in an ever-changing market.
Gabby Cui, Head of DITO MSME, emphasized the purpose behind the program, highlighting how Filipino entrepreneurs continue to move the country forward through innovation and determination.
“Every small business has a story of sacrifice, growth, and courage in uncertainty. Through this platform, we want to celebrate those stories and give entrepreneurs the recognition they deserve,” Cui shared.
DITO Telecommunity Chief Commercial Officer Atty. Adel A. Tamano also underscored the cultural weight of the initiative, drawing attention to the Filipino concept of bayani, not just as heroes in the traditional sense, but as builders of communities.
He noted that MSMEs, from market vendors and home kitchens to small workshops, represent the true spirit of nation-building. He also emphasized how connectivity plays a vital role in helping Filipino entrepreneurs break barriers and expand beyond geographic limitations across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
The launch also marked a rare convergence of public and private sector leaders, including representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), GCash, JobStreet, DCME Holdings, Philippine Franchise Association (PFA), Philippine Retailers Association (PRA), Philippine AI Business Association (PAIBA), and the Philippine Council for Small & Medium Businesses (PCSMB).
DITO President and CEO Eric R. Alberto led a ceremonial toast honoring the collective effort behind the initiative, recognizing that BizBayani is not just a corporate program but a shared national movement.
“To the BizBayanis of the Philippines, the builders, the risk-takers, the believers, this is for you,” Alberto said.
The awards will recognize MSMEs across five key categories:Growth and Resilience – Businesses that thrive through challenges
- Digital Adoption – Enterprises embracing technology for growth
- Employer Excellence – Companies fostering strong workplace culture
- Industry Impact – Businesses strengthening local communities
- Bold Innovation – Disruptive and forward-thinking ventures
Closing the event, DITO Business Deputy Chief Revenue Officer Luigi Lopa officially opened the nomination period, inviting Filipinos nationwide to recognize the entrepreneurs in their own communities.
“An awards program is only as powerful as the stories behind it. The real heroes are already out there,” Lopa said, announcing that nominations are now officially open via the DITO BizBayani Awards portal.
Filipinos across the country are encouraged to nominate MSMEs and community entrepreneurs who embody the spirit of resilience, innovation, and service, proving that nation-building often begins in the smallest shops, kitchens, and local enterprises.
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