RP gearing to be top ICT outsourcing destination

The Philippines is eyeing top spot as Information and Communications Technology (ICT) outsourcing destination.

During the Innove Communications Inc-sponsored ICT 2005 International Conference held in Cebu, Philippine president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo proudly declared, "The cyber services corridor concept is gaining ground from Baguio to Zamboanga."

She cites the anticipated increase in Filipino software developers – from the current 30,000 to a whopping 100,000 at the end of her term in 2010 as proof of getting an edge in the outsourcing game. Arroyo points out that ICT outsourcing is expected to generate a total of 135,000 jobs for this year alone.

Cebu governor Gwendolyn Garcia shares the president’s optimistic sentiments and is excited over the province’s prospects as an emerging technology center.

"We have what it takes to be Asia’s major ICT hub," Garcia says, and hastens to add, "Our ICT infrastructure is world-class in every way.”

Why Cebu?

"Cebu’s central location in the Philippines and Asia makes us an important gateway to both this country and the rest of the region," the proud governor readily answers.

Garcia is just as quick to point out that of course, the private sector should work hand in hand with the government to streamline investment procedures and increase the province’s attractiveness as a destination for all types of value-added investment.

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