MANILA  -A majority of small businesses in the Philippines plan to implement marketing activities for their websites, highlighting the significance of having an online presence for a huge portion of enterprises in the Southeast Asian country.

Results of the survey by web hosting company GoDaddy found that 85 percent of the small businesses in the Philippines have plans to advertise on social media platforms, while 70 percent plan to create a responsive design for their website.

These results were drawn from the GoDaddy 2023 Data Observatory, a survey across ten countries—which include the Philippines—conducted earlier in March among 6,482 businesses with up to 50 employees.

The results also showed that 34 percent of small businesses in the Philippines, which currently do not have a business website plan to build one within the next three months, while 55 percent said they plan to do it next year.

“GoDaddy’s survey results reflect the growing commitment of Filipino small businesses to digitalization. It is clear that respondents believe that having a comprehensive digital marketing strategy is essential for future success, and we encourage them to build a strong online presence to help their business grow,” said Selina Bieber, vice president of international markets for GoDaddy.

Filipino respondents cited a number of benefits in having a website, with 75 percent saying that it allows them to better showcase their products and services.

Additionally, 72 percent cited that it enhances the visibility of their business, while 72 percent said it aids in having more information about their target audience.

Further, 71 percent noted that it allows them to explore new sales channels, while 70 percent emphasized that it helps them attract new target audiences.

The survey also found that 56 percent of small businesses in the Philippines have embraced marketing automation, a portion which is on par with the global average of 57 percent.

In the Philippines, 99.5 percent of businesses belong to the micro, small and medium enterprises segment according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. INQ