Telco cites biz partners

LEADING wireless services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) recently recognized some of its key business partners, specifically those that have successfully and innovatively brought the telco's products and services closer than ever to its growing subscriber base.

"Our business partners are major contributors to our success," said Orlando B. Vea, Smart's chief wireless advisor. "They are an integral part of Smart's ability to innovate and grow and it is with their help that we are able to further reach and serve our more than 50 million subscribers."

Among Smart's key account partners, the six companies that were recognized were: Asiatel Distribution Inc. (Retail Sales Channel); Ayannah Information Solutions, Muenchen Corporation, OksPinoy, and VMobile (Emerging Sales Channel); and PLDT Global Corp. (International Sales Channel).

Smart cited the companies for progressively developing multi-faceted selling channels such as online, multi-level marketing, point-of-sale system, and customization, aside from traditional loading via phone-to-phone.

"It is a privilege for us to be one of the partners of Smart," said Miguel Perez, CEO of Ayannah Information Solutions. "By developing new and innovative mobile commerce and payment services, we help enrich the experience of many Filipinos in their mobile transactions."

Perez said that with Smart being one of its key partners, Ayannah is looking at a continued growth trajectory this year. For many of the companies, they are expecting more challenges this year and they are looking forward to growing their businesses into new horizons.

"There's a challenge for us to come up with services that are not only very price-driven and relevant but also, in terms of distribution, are within Filipinos' reach," said Ricardo Isla, head of PLDT Global International Retail Sales, Marketing Services and Product Management.

"We will be doing a lot of online activities, particularly pushing our voice products online, and that is where we see Smart as a valuable partner," Isla said.

"Our relationship with our partners is very special because it is driven by a common purpose, and that is to touch and improve the lives of our people and enable them to live more," Vea said.