It was only as recently as the turn of the Millennium that BPO operations began in the country, with just 10,000 people representing the sector. Today, just 11 years later, that figure has grown to 200,000, generating an impressive $ 3.3 million in revenue. An increase in the industry of 50% per annum shows that growth is continuing apace; as a result of the Philippines competitive labour rates, high quality infrastructure, and affinity with Western culture. An affinity which manifests itself in the superior spoken and written English language skills of the local workforce.
The initial wave of BPO operations, in 2000, took place in the capital, Manila. The city now has close to 100 voice based contact centres, spread across the city's main business hubs: Makati, Alabang, Quezon City, Eastwood and Ortigas. The attractive economies that can be found in provincial locales mean that locators are already starting to move in to these areas.
Of the many reasons for the Philippines dramatic ascent to the forefront of North American corporate thinking, the plethora of so much local talent that the country posesses, is surely the most attractive.
English skills (not only spoken, but also the ability to read and write fluently), advanced education, and a proximity to American culture, are all commonplace. The affinity with American culture finds its roots in the 50 year period which followed the American / Spanish war. It was during this time that a number of institutions were formed that would live on past the watershed of independence, in to today's Philippines. The influence reaches in to the very core of contemporary Filipino life, manifesting itself in a combination of local traditions and customs, with American values and history.
ENTERTAINMENT
The presence and popularity of T.V shows such as "Philippine Idol", coupled with the huge interest in Hollywood Movies, American clothing labels, and U.S style bars and diners, acts as clear evidence of the infiltration of stateside culture in to local life.
SPORTS
Nowhere is the influence of America more keenly felt than in the sporting arena. Whereas soccer has its supporters here, it differs from other Asian nations in that the sport does not hold the number one spot in the affections of the local population. That title would be held by any one of Boxing, Basketball, Billiards or Bowling. All of which are easily accessible in any part of the country, and are regularly viewed live by enthusiastic fans in the sports bars and diners
MUSIC
The most popular music genres in the country were all introduced by American popular culture. Namely Blues, Rock and Roll, and R & B. Because of such a profound influence, much of today's OPM (Original Pilipino Music) is derivative of earlier American Pop Music, in turn lending it a growing popularity with the U.S Market.
OFFSHORE WORKERS
The presence of over 3 million Filipinos in the United States, either as Immigrants or Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) maintains an ongoing link to American Culture.
COMPETENT SUPPLIERS
REDUCED OPERATING COSTS
ROBUST INFRASTRUCTURE
TALENTED LABOUR POOL
GOVERNMENT INCENTIVES
THE PROVINCIAL ADVANTAGE
ECONOMIC ZONES
An initiative administered by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). This has proved to be of great benefit to IT enabled service exporters, as PEZA grants such companies, including clients of Westhill's fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. Under this program, foreign investors and exporters in the IT Service Export sector are also eligible for ready-to-occupy locations in world-class, environmentally friendly Economic Zones and Business Parks.ACCESS
Located in the heart of Asia, and less than four hours from most major capital cities in the region, The Philippines finds itself in the ideal location. Annexed at the heart of Eastern and Western Business,it is a vital gateway to over 500 million people in the ASEAN Market.
Allied to which, hourly regional flights between all major cities and provincial towns, mean that BPO destinations around the country are easily accessible. Meanwhile, numerous international airports are being developed.INFRASTRUCTURE
A 600 mile "cyber corridor ", stretching the length of the archipelago, ensures that IT services run consistently and smoothly.
The initial wave of BPO operations, in 2000, took place in the capital, Manila. The city now has close to 100 voice based contact centres, spread across the city's main business hubs: Makati, Alabang, Quezon City, Eastwood and Ortigas. The attractive economies that can be found in provincial locales mean that locators are already starting to move in to these areas.
TALENT
Of the many reasons for the Philippines dramatic ascent to the forefront of North American corporate thinking, the plethora of so much local talent that the country posesses, is surely the most attractive.
English skills (not only spoken, but also the ability to read and write fluently), advanced education, and a proximity to American culture, are all commonplace. The affinity with American culture finds its roots in the 50 year period which followed the American / Spanish war. It was during this time that a number of institutions were formed that would live on past the watershed of independence, in to today's Philippines. The influence reaches in to the very core of contemporary Filipino life, manifesting itself in a combination of local traditions and customs, with American values and history.
HOW THE CULTURAL SIMILARITIES ARE CLEAR TOO SEE
An initiative administered by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). This has proved to be of great benefit to IT enabled service exporters, as PEZA grants such companies, including clients of Westhill's fiscal and non-fiscal incentives. Under this program, foreign investors and exporters in the IT Service Export sector are also eligible for ready-to-occupy locations in world-class, environmentally friendly Economic Zones and Business Parks.
Allied to which, hourly regional flights between all major cities and provincial towns, mean that BPO destinations around the country are easily accessible. Meanwhile, numerous international airports are being developed.