Microsoft, Intel, PLDT extend aid to SMEs

this story was taken from www.inq7money.net Microsoft, Intel, PLDT extend aid to SMEs Posted: 2:44 AM Feb. 22, 2006 Ronnel W. Domingo Inquirer INTEL Microelectronics Philippines has tied up with the Department of Trade and Industry and two other major private corporations to set up a technology shop that will allow small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) to try out software and hardware brands before buying them, Trade and Industry Secretary Peter Favila said Tuesday. The project, which also involves the Commission on Information and Communication Technology, will use Intel's digital platform technology, Microsoft Philippines' software, and Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co.'s (PLDT's) infrastructure to create the Business Technology Center, Favila said. He said the center would enable SMEs to enhance their productivity. Located at the Regional Operations Group Office of the Department of Trade and Industry in the Makati business district, the center will give SMEs the opportunity to try out the latest Intel Pentium D processor desktops and Intel Centrino mobile technology notebooks, Favila said. SME owners may consult with experts at the department to learn how to automate their operations, he said. The center will also serve as a training venue for technology skills-building seminars for SMEs and teach them how to use PCs for their businesses. The training modules include use of the Internet as a tool to create online presence and transaction methods, and give lessons on online security and protection of business systems. "There are 655,000 SMEs nationwide, 90 percent of all businesses in the country," Favila said. "They are crucial to the growth of the country, contributing to 69 percent of all employment and 32 percent of the country's output." With INQ7.net Copyright 2006 Inquirer and INQ7.net. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.