Grab launches ‘Asenso’ program to fast-track MSME digitalization
The program combines a multi-city Learning Caravan with new mobile-first tools on the GrabMerchant app, giving entrepreneurs both the know-how and ready-to-use technology to grow their businesses online.
Grab Philippines Vice President for Cities CJ Lacsican, together with representatives from the Angeles City LGU, DICT, and the local merchant community, officially launched Grab Asenso: A Digital Diskarte Program. (From left) Kuya Jeck’s Tapsilogan owner Ronnie Casupanan, DICT Pampanga Provincial Head Engr. Jonathan Solis, Grab PH Regional Manager for Northern Luzon Joe Mangiliman, Angeles City Vice Mayor Amos Rivera, Grab PH Vice President for Cities CJ Lacsican, Morgen Kaffee owners Miguel and Micaela Evangelista, and Grab PH Country Communications Head Arvi Lopez.
Grab has launched Grab Asenso: A Digital Diskarte Program, a nationwide initiative aimed at fast-tracking the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) outside Metro Manila.
The program combines a multi-city Learning Caravan with new mobile-first tools on the GrabMerchant app, giving entrepreneurs both the know-how and ready-to-use technology to grow their businesses online.
MSMEs make up 99.6 percent of businesses in the Philippines and 65 percent of jobs, yet many are still early in their digital journey. With more than 57 percent of retail payments already digital, Grab says now is the time to help small businesses catch up.
The first leg of the caravan was held in Angeles City and will expand soon to Cavite, Baguio, Bohol, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Bacolod, and Cagayan de Oro. The initiative is backed by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), local government units, and Grab merchant-partners.
“Progress happens when every entrepreneur, regardless of business size, can fully participate in the digital economy,” said CJ Lacsican, Grab Philippines VP for Cities. “Grab Asenso goes beyond seminars. We pair hands-on, mobile-based learning with tools like marketing, payments, logistics, and even an AI copilot so MSMEs can reach customers, run leaner operations, and scale faster.”
DICT Director Emmy Lou Versoza-Delfin called the program “a powerful display of digital bayanihan,” noting its alignment with the agency’s agenda to close the digital divide.
Unlike typical training or standalone tools, Grab Asenso bundles skills, infrastructure, and access to demand in one track. MSMEs can learn practical digital marketing, AI-powered business tasks, and financial planning — all designed to be applied directly from a smartphone.
