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SAN FRANCISCO and MANILA, Philippines, June 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The number of smartphone users in the Philippines is forecasted to grow in the next four years, reaching more than 80 million consumers. To keep up with this demand, mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has partnered with PayJoy, a Public Benefit Corporation focused on bringing responsible financing to underserved customers in emerging markets to provide Filipino consumers, particularly those new to credit, the opportunity to purchase smartphones through PayJoy's financing solutions.
"This collaboration aims to provide Filipino consumers, particularly those with limited budgets and no access to traditional credit, the opportunity to purchase mid to high-end smartphones through innovative financing solutions that will enable them to upgrade their means of communication and easier access to information," said Jac Bocalan, Department Head/VP at Smart.
Customers in the Philippines can now acquire smartphones by simply providing an ID and phone number, without needing a traditional credit card. Payments can be made weekly over a period of four, six, or nine months, making it easier for individuals to own high-quality devices to stay connected at home, work, or school.
"Our partnership with PayJoy aligns with our commitment to serve more Filipinos through innovative solutions. By providing accessible financing options for smartphones, we are helping bridge the digital divide and ensuring that everyone can benefit from our extensive 4G/LTE and 5G network which allows them to access their essential productivity, entertainment, gaming, and other favorite apps on the go. We also encourage our customers to upgrade from 3G to LTE or 5G so that they can enjoy a better experience on their Smart-powered mobile phones," said Christian So, OIC-AVP Sales Head at Smart.
PayJoy, currently serving 66 million low-income consumers in the Philippines, provides responsible financing to underserved populations in emerging markets. Using proprietary phone-security technology and AI-driven underwriting, PayJoy helps borrowers build credit and access digital tools for work, education, and connection.
"Our mission is to unlock financial freedom for the next billion people worldwide. By partnering with Smart, we are enabling more Filipinos to access the technology they need to stay connected and improve their lives," said Rene Payan, Country Manager at PayJoy.
Smart continues to lead the way in expanding 4G/5G connectivity in the Philippines, covering 97% of the population and offering unparalleled coverage and availability. This expansion allows customers to enjoy faster internet speeds, seamless streaming, and improved mobile gaming experiences, further enhancing their digital lifestyle.
Customers who purchase a participating mobile device bundled with a Smart/TNT Prepaid SIM and avail of a nine-month device amortization from PayJoy will be eligible for a free one-month device amortization, applied to the last payment term. This promo runs from April 9, 2025, to February 24, 2026.
This partnership is aligned with PLDT's mission to contribute to the country's achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
About PayJoy
PayJoy is a Public Benefit Corporation providing responsible financing to underserved populations in emerging markets. Using proprietary phone-security technology and AI-driven underwriting, PayJoy helps borrowers build credit and access digital tools for work, education, and connection. Learn more at www.payjoy.com.
About Smart Communications
Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is a wholly owned wireless communications and digital services subsidiary of PLDT Inc., the Philippines' largest and only integrated telecommunications company. Smart serves approximately 97% of the country's population with its combined 4G/LTE and 5G network, providing mobile communications services, high-speed internet connectivity, and access to digital services and content, supporting the country's growing digital economy, and providing the best customer experience for an increasingly digital Filipino lifestyle.
SAN FRANCISCO and MANILA, Philippines, June 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The number of smartphone users in the Philippines is forecasted to grow in the next four years, reaching more than 80 million consumers. To keep up with this demand, mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) has partnered with PayJoy, a Public Benefit Corporation focused on bringing responsible financing to underserved customers in emerging markets to provide Filipino consumers, particularly those new to credit, the opportunity to purchase smartphones through PayJoy's financing solutions.
"This collaboration aims to provide Filipino consumers, particularly those with limited budgets and no access to traditional credit, the opportunity to purchase mid to high-end smartphones through innovative financing solutions that will enable them to upgrade their means of communication and easier access to information," said Jac Bocalan, Department Head/VP at Smart.
Customers in the Philippines can now acquire smartphones by simply providing an ID and phone number, without needing a traditional credit card. Payments can be made weekly over a period of four, six, or nine months, making it easier for individuals to own high-quality devices to stay connected at home, work, or school.
"Our partnership with PayJoy aligns with our commitment to serve more Filipinos through innovative solutions. By providing accessible financing options for smartphones, we are helping bridge the digital divide and ensuring that everyone can benefit from our extensive 4G/LTE and 5G network which allows them to access their essential productivity, entertainment, gaming, and other favorite apps on the go. We also encourage our customers to upgrade from 3G to LTE or 5G so that they can enjoy a better experience on their Smart-powered mobile phones," said Christian So, OIC-AVP Sales Head at Smart.
PayJoy, currently serving 66 million low-income consumers in the Philippines, provides responsible financing to underserved populations in emerging markets. Using proprietary phone-security technology and AI-driven underwriting, PayJoy helps borrowers build credit and access digital tools for work, education, and connection.
"Our mission is to unlock financial freedom for the next billion people worldwide. By partnering with Smart, we are enabling more Filipinos to access the technology they need to stay connected and improve their lives," said Rene Payan, Country Manager at PayJoy.
Smart continues to lead the way in expanding 4G/5G connectivity in the Philippines, covering 97% of the population and offering unparalleled coverage and availability. This expansion allows customers to enjoy faster internet speeds, seamless streaming, and improved mobile gaming experiences, further enhancing their digital lifestyle.
Customers who purchase a participating mobile device bundled with a Smart/TNT Prepaid SIM and avail of a nine-month device amortization from PayJoy will be eligible for a free one-month device amortization, applied to the last payment term. This promo runs from April 9, 2025, to February 24, 2026.
This partnership is aligned with PLDT's mission to contribute to the country's achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
About PayJoy
PayJoy is a Public Benefit Corporation providing responsible financing to underserved populations in emerging markets. Using proprietary phone-security technology and AI-driven underwriting, PayJoy helps borrowers build credit and access digital tools for work, education, and connection. Learn more at www.payjoy.com.
About Smart Communications
Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is a wholly owned wireless communications and digital services subsidiary of PLDT Inc., the Philippines' largest and only integrated telecommunications company. Smart serves approximately 97% of the country's population with its combined 4G/LTE and 5G network, providing mobile communications services, high-speed internet connectivity, and access to digital services and content, supporting the country's growing digital economy, and providing the best customer experience for an increasingly digital Filipino lifestyle.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Smart and PayJoy Partner to Expand Access to Credit, Empowering More Filipino Consumers
HANOI, Vietnam, Jan. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Travellive Media Group is pleased to announce the HOTLIST Travellive Editor's Pick 2025 (HOTLIST 2025), a curated project honouring outstanding brands, destinations, and individuals that have made significant contributions to the development of Vietnam's tourism industry over the past year.
HOTLIST is a expert-curated list reflecting the evolving values of the market at each stage of development. The selection process combines the expertise of a prestigious advisory council comprising both domestic and international experts, based on key criteria including quality, innovation, social impact, and sustainable growth potential.
Last year, HOTLIST 2024 made a strong impression on the tourism, hospitality, and service community by recognising more than 40 brands and 12 inspiring individuals across 28 categories spanning hospitality and resorts, destinations, technology, and experiential initiatives. The year also marked the first time HOTLIST expanded into a professional event series, featuring The Insiders Forum and the Honor Ceremony, attracting over 700 guests including senior business leaders and experts from various fields.
HOTLIST 2025: From Seed to Harvest
Entering 2025, HOTLIST is developed under the theme "From Seed to Harvest" inspired by rice, a symbol deeply rooted in Vietnam's wet-rice civilisation and cultural identity. From planting ideas and nurturing resources to harvesting sustainable achievements, this metaphor reflects the authentic development journey of projects, brands, and destinations within the tourism and hospitality industry.
At a time when the tourism sector faces multiple challenges such as climate change, shifting traveller behaviour, and global competition, the spirit of "From Seed to Harvest" underscores the importance of long-term vision, perseverance, and adaptability.
This year, HOTLIST 2025 introduces a public voting component in the final evaluation stage, enabling the community and industry professionals to participate directly in the selection process. Beyond fostering engagement, this initiative also provides an opportunity for audiences to share their firsthand experiences with the shortlisted brands and projects.
HOTLIST 2025 Honourees
HOTLIST 2025 expands its scope across key tourism sectors, featuring 07 main categories: Hospitality; Aviation; Travel Design & Experiences; Destination; Technology & Innovations; Sustainability and Community Projects & Voices. Each category aims to identify exemplary individuals and brands that play a guiding role in shaping the future of Vietnam's tourism and hospitality industry.
This year's list continues to acknowledge well-established brands such as Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An; Topas Ecolodge; Six Senses Ninh Van Bay; P'apiu Resort; Wink Hotels, among others. It also introduces international brands that have made a positive impact on the Vietnamese market, including voco Quang Binh Resort by IHG, Park Hyatt Phu Quoc, and Hyatt Place Halong Bay, Bai Chay. In the Aviation category, STARLUX AIRLINES was selected for its premium flight experience.
The expansion and diversification of award categories reflect HOTLIST's commitment to comprehensively capturing industry dynamics, while encouraging responsible development models that respect local identity and generate positive social impact.
As part of its mission to deliver practical value to the tourism industry, HOTLIST 2025 will host The Insiders Forum in Hanoi (7 January 2026, Sheraton Hanoi West) and Ho Chi Minh City (19 January 2026, JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon). The forums will gather business leaders, experts, and researchers to share insights and discuss key topics shaping tourism landscape.
On 19 January 2026, The Honor Ceremony will take place in Ho Chi Minh City to officially recognise and present certificates to the brands, projects, and individuals featured in HOTLIST 2025. The event will also serve as a B2B networking platform for industry stakeholders.
Through each edition, HOTLIST Travellive Editor's Pick has gradually become a highly anticipated annual reference point for the tourism community, built on credibility, sustainability-driven orientation, and a series of professional programmes. Through recognition activities, dialogue forums, and community connections, Travellive not only highlights market excellence but also actively contributes to promoting sustainable thinking and elevating standards within tourism industry.
This year, HOTLIST 2025 is supported by The Brand Promise (Co-organiser of The Insiders Forum), PR Newswire (Media Partner), and sponsoring brands including BMWines, Lady Triệu (drink experiences), and Cocoon, Jourdeness (gifts). HOTLIST 2025 continues to amplify meaningful stories, connect outstanding individuals and organisations, and share positive values with the wider public.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
HOTLIST 2025 "From Seed to Harvest": A Story of Resilience and Transformation
