In embracing all employees and their identity, PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is promoting ‘Every Color, Every You’ as this year’s group-wide campaign for LGBTQIA+ Pride Month in June. The theme reinforces PLDT Group’s sustainability culture that promotes diversity and inclusion.
“PLDT and Smart embrace the unique colors and diverse backgrounds of our employees. Guided by our core value of valuing our people as our family, we foster an inclusive work atmosphere where individual differences are respected and valued,” said Gina P. Ordonez, Chief People Officer of PLDT and Smart.
Underpinned by its Diversity and Inclusion Policy, PLDT cultivates an environment characterized by openness, trust and respect. The PLDT Group does not tolerate any form of harassment, abuse, discrimination, intimidation, retaliation or discrimination.
Led by the People Group, PLDT and Smart broke down perceived barriers by engaging workers in conversations on how to be allies to LGBTQIA+ members as part of this year’s Pride Month activities.
Aiming to create a safe space for all, People Group hosts talks on self-awareness to help LGBTQIA+ colleagues face stigma and creates platforms for employees to express their support .
Aside from the seminars, PLDT and Smart will also hold various virtual engagements and tributes throughout June to show support and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ co-workers.
And at the end of Pride Month, PLDT and Smart supported the Pride March in Quezon City through a contingent of LGBTQIA+ employees and allies who participated in the PridePH Festival 2023 centered on #LoveLaban for the rights, dignity, freedom and love of community.
As equal opportunity employers, PLDT and Smart recognize that diversity is an economic driver of companies’ competitiveness, contributes to business success and stakeholder value, and is an important element for achieving strategic goal of the company and its sustainable development. This is reflected in a non-discrimination policy throughout the hiring team.
The promotion of diversity and equality also promotes Concern, one of the four pillars that make up the PLDT Group’s sustainability framework.
PLDT and Smart’s initiatives for gender equality in the workplace underscore their commitment to helping the Philippines achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSGDs) of SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
