PANGILINAN-LED Smart Communications, Inc. has partnered with PayJoy to provide smartphone financing solutions to capture the projected smartphone demand in the country.

“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,” Jac N. Bocalan, vice-president and head of channel management at Smart, said in the statement on Monday.

PayJoy, a public benefit corporation focusing on providing financing solutions to underserved customers in emerging markets, currently serves 66 million low-income consumers in the Philippines.

Through this collaboration, customers can now acquire smartphones by providing a valid ID and phone number even without credit cards, Smart said, adding that payments can be made weekly over a period of four to nine months.

“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,” PayJoy Country Manager Rene Payan said.

Smart said the number of smartphone users in the Philippines is projected to grow in the next four years, hitting more than 80 million users.

At present, the company continues to expand 4G/5G connectivity in the country, covering up to 97% of the population.

“This expansion allows customers to enjoy faster internet speeds, seamless streaming, and improved mobile gaming experiences, further enhancing their digital lifestyle,” Smart said.

Smart is the wireless unit of PLDT Inc. Hastings Holdings, Inc., a unit of PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund subsidiary MediaQuest Holdings, Inc., has a majority stake in BusinessWorld through the Philippine Star Group, which it controls. — Ashley Erika O. Jose