President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Friday that the Philippines is ready to advance the digital economy through partnership with Canada. During a roundtable in Vancouver with executives from the information technology-business process management (IT-BPM) sector, the President emphasized that the upcoming Philippine-Canada Free Trade Agreement aims to usher in more bilateral trade, strategic investments, and seamless economic cooperation.
Shifting the Role of the IT-BPM Sector
President Marcos stated that the IT-BPM sector was no longer a back office function as it is now a core driver of innovation, productivity and global value creation. According to the President, core business operations—including cybersecurity, analytics, financial service support, and healthcare information management—are now central to how global enterprises compete and how they grow.
Canadian firms already maintain a strong participation in this landscape. These companies provide support in areas such as software as a service, enterprise software, consulting, and next-generation digital operations. Among the organizations represented during the discussions were Blackberry, CGI, Everise, ManuLife, OpenText, NQX, Sun Life, Telus Corp., and InTouchCX.
Did You Know?
There are more than 24,000 Filipinos already driving AI, digital transformation and other high-value services for global clients.
Future Implications for the Filipino Workforce
The government intends to leverage this partnership to prepare the local workforce for the industries of tomorrow. President Marcos noted that discussions with Canadian technology leaders specifically targeted the expansion of opportunities in artificial intelligence (AI), software engineering, and digital innovation. By investing in the skills of our people, the administration aims to position Filipino talent to compete and succeed on the global stage.
Expert Insight:
The strategic pivot toward high-value services like AI and cybersecurity is supported by the government’s engagement with Canadian companies.
What Happens Next
The ongoing engagement with Canadian technology firms suggests a shift toward more specialized, high-value outsourcing. President Marcos has encouraged Telus to invest in the Philippines. Future developments will likely depend on the finalization of the trade agreement, which aims to catalyze a robust digital economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the Philippine-Canada Free Trade Agreement?
The agreement aims to catalyze a robust digital economy by increasing bilateral trade, fostering strategic investments, and improving seamless economic cooperation.
Which Canadian companies were involved in the discussions?
The companies represented included Blackberry, CGI, Everise, ManuLife, OpenText, NQX, Sun Life, Telus Corp., and InTouchCX.
What specific sectors is the Philippines targeting for growth?
The focus is on expanding capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI), software engineering, digital innovation, cybersecurity, and healthcare information management.
How do you think this shift toward AI and digital services will impact the future of the local workforce?
