PLDT Expands Globally, Ties Up with Samsung, SM

Manila–The country’s leading telecommunications provider, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), has announced its partnership on Tuesday with leading electronics company, Samsung; and retail giant, SM Supermalls through PLDT Global.

PLDT Global’s Smart Pinoy Stores abroad will be carrying Samsung’s domestic appliances and electronic product lines so Filipinos overseas can pay directly to these establishments and have them delivered to their family in the Philippines.

These transactions can also be coursed through PLDT Global’s online portal store.smartpinoy.com.

“We are very excited for this partnership that will not only help us tap the growing market of Filipinos abroad but also allows them to conveniently purchase their products of choice for their families here,” said PLDT EVP and Enterprise, International, and Carrier Business Eric R. Alberto.

Meanwhile, PLDT Global’s tie-up with SM enables Filipinos overseas to purchase SM gift certificates in Smart Pinoy stores while their family in the country can pick up the vouchers in all SM branches nationwide.

SM will also be providing privilege cards to the first 1,000 Smart Pinoy Store subscribers and buyers giving them additional perks and special discounts at SM Supermalls Global Pinoy Centers in all 35 branches nationwide, a one-stop convenience shop for OFWs.

Alberto added that they could also showcase its #expressALAGA brand for OFWs through their Smart Pinoy Stores.

Aside from the aforementioned benefits, Smart Pinoy Store is where OFWs can purchase call and text loads, pay utility bills, educational plans, medical services, and other available goods for their families in the Philippines.

The partnership has allowed Smart Pinoy store to offer OFWs with Samsung products including tablets, refrigerators, air conditioning units, smart TVs, and washing machines at discounted prices, which they can send to their families in the country.

“We welcome this partnership as it gives us the opportunity to offer Samsung’s range of products to our overseas Filipinos who would want to provide the latest gadgets and appliances for their families,” said Samsung Electronics Philippines’ President and CEO Chung Lyong Lee.

PLDT Global’s online portal has reached over four million hits last year with traffic mostly coming from Australia and Asian countries densely populated by Filipinos like Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Malaysia.

Due to the increase in activity among OFWs with online payment stores, PLDT Global has aimed to grow its market reach through its partnership with key players in the field of technology and retail. (PNA) LGI/JDM