Mobile leader Smart Communications (Smart) is helping spur the growth of opportunities for online freelancers in the Philippines through its support for the first Digital Career Boot Camp, organized by OnlineJobsUniversity.com (OJU) in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
The one-day event aims to provide participants with an awareness and up-to-date information on how to start an online career, through lectures and actionable steps intended for aspiring and experienced work-from-home professionals.
With an estimated 1.5 million online freelancers in the Philippines earning a decent and even above average pay, what used to be called a “sideline” or just a way to earn additional income has now become a mainstream industry and a fast growing career choice for many. Driven by the perks and flexibility offered by various jobs online, the growth of the freelance market in the country is hand-in-hand with what has been called a “digital migration”. Individuals with BPO (business process outsourcing) or call center experience, for example, now have the opportunity to shift to an online career and improve their earning potential.
“The digital age presents a great opportunity for many Filipinos to find new careers and sources of livelihood. Supporting the first digital career boot camp is part of our effort to promote the opportunities presented by the digital age, and enable Filipinos, including our close to 70 million subscribers to benefit from a fully realized digital life,” said Ramon Isberto, Head of Public Affairs for PLDT and Smart.
“We expect the online freelancing industry to grow even further, especially with the support of the government through the various DICT programs running all over the country. Our goal is to educate our kababayans about the different opportunities that are available to them in this digital age,” said Genesis Reonico, Founder of OnlineJobsUniversity.com and digital career coach.
“It is an exciting time for us at PLDT and Smart as we fully pivot to digital. We are not only building a stronger and better network for our subscribers, but also providing them with access to services to help them grow and prosper in what is increasingly a digital world. This is just one of the many #SmarterChange initiatives that we are undertaking,” concluded Isberto.
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