COMMUNITY | PLDT, Smart scale 45M reach for its #BetterToday mental health program

PLDT and Smart forge ahead in leveraging technology to promote sound mental health for all. In 2023, PLDT and Smart recorded a reach of over 45 million for its #BetterToday program, bridging the digital divide, as it creates safe, happy, and inclusive spaces.

“Better Today journeys hand in hand with like-minded advocates from various sectors, including local governments, content creators, and civil society organizations. With over 45 million reach and over 20 community partners, PLDT and Smart believe in the continuous creation of shared value and on a whole-of-community approach to making the digital world safer, and better today,” said Cathy Yang, first vice president and group head for corporate communications.

In 2023, PLDT and Smart strengthened their partnerships with LGUs by conducting health awareness events in Quezon City, Quirino Province, Cebu City, and Cagayan de Oro. Through the Better Today Psychological First Aid Program, PLDT and Smart also mobilized volunteers from different sectors to help address the mental health needs of distressed individuals within communities. Ensuring a safe and inclusive space, the volunteers included the youth, senior citizens, barangay healthcare workers from La Union and the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) community in Porac, Pampanga.

“Promoting mental health has long been a personal advocacy, and I am very grateful to PLDT and Smart for helping us strengthen our mental health program in the province,” said Joy R. Ortega, Sangguniang Panlalawigan of La Union board member.

Creating a ‘malasakit’ culture at the workplace, PLDT and Smart have also curated wellness campaigns for their over 14,000 employees. Through their Wellness Revolution Program, PLDT and Smart continuously promote the holistic well-being of the workforce through weekly fitness classes in the workplace and mental health webinars for employees featuring experts. To promote a #HappySpace culture, exciting events are organized such as org-wide Halloween activities with employees and their families, employee recognition events for top performers and tenured employees, and a week-long year-end Christmas Thanksgiving celebration. The “Mind Your Health” program, launched in 2020, also continues to be a key part of the company’s efforts to enhance the mental and emotional well-being of the workforce. Well-being consultations with doctors and counselors are also provided as a company benefit.

Promoting digital wellness is a key part of PLDT and Smart’s continuing commitment to help the Philippines contribute to UNSDG #3: Good health and well-being.