SOCIAL MEDIA

Southeast Asia E-Commerce Boom Set to Benefit SMEs by 2029

Tuesday, May 19, 2026


Southeast Asia’s digital economy is entering another major growth phase, and small businesses are expected to play a much bigger role in shaping that future.

A new study commissioned by 2C2P by Antom reveals that Southeast Asia’s e-commerce market is projected to become the world’s second fastest-growing e-commerce region by 2029, trailing only India. For entrepreneurs, online sellers, and SMEs across the region, the findings highlight how digital payments and cross-border commerce are opening new opportunities for expansion.

According to the report conducted by market intelligence firm IDC, Southeast Asia’s e-commerce market is expected to grow at a 13.2% compound annual growth rate from 2024 to 2029. By the end of the forecast period, the market is projected to reach an estimated US$289.8 billion, marking an 85.4% increase from current levels.

Digital Payments Continue to Reshape Southeast Asia’s Shopping Habits

As online shopping continues to evolve, consumer payment behavior across Southeast Asia is shifting rapidly toward digital-first transactions.

The report found that digital payments are expected to account for 97% of all e-commerce transactions by 2029, a significant jump from 89% in 2024. This trend reflects how consumers are increasingly embracing faster, more convenient, and locally accessible payment methods.

Among the biggest growth drivers are domestic payment systems, mobile wallets, and Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services.

Mobile Wallets and Real-Time Payments Gain Momentum

Domestic payments, including real-time payment systems and local bank-based payment schemes, are projected to grow by 104% over the next few years. IDC estimates that this segment could reach US$92 billion by 2029, overtaking card payments as Southeast Asia’s leading digital payment method.

Meanwhile, mobile wallets are expected to see a 107% increase, growing from US$38.2 billion in 2024 to US$79 billion by 2029. Countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam are seeing especially strong adoption as consumers prioritize convenience and mobile accessibility.

BNPL services are also expanding rapidly. The report projects a 174% surge in BNPL transactions, potentially reaching US$18.9 billion by 2029.

These payment innovations are helping address long-standing financial access gaps across the region. With 56% of Southeast Asia’s population still considered uncarded according to World Bank data, digital wallets and local payment systems are becoming essential tools for online commerce participation.

SMEs Emerging as a Major Driver of E-Commerce Growth

One of the most notable findings from the study is the growing influence of SMEs in Southeast Asia’s digital economy.

IDC estimates that SMEs could contribute as much as 58% of Southeast Asia’s e-commerce market by 2029. The study surveyed 600 SMEs across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam to better understand how businesses are adapting to changing payment trends and digital commerce demands.

Currently, 66% of SMEs surveyed already sell online, signaling stronger participation in the region’s expanding digital marketplace. However, many businesses are still navigating challenges tied to digital transformation.

Digitalization Barriers Still Affect Many Businesses

Despite rapid e-commerce growth, many SMEs continue to rely heavily on cash transactions. In fact, one-third of surveyed businesses still use cash extensively in day-to-day operations, including companies in more digitally advanced markets like Singapore.

The report points to several ongoing obstacles slowing digital adoption, including:
  • Integration complexity
  • Fraud and cybersecurity concerns
  • High transaction fees
  • Infrastructure limitations
  • Connectivity challenges
  • Regulatory pressures

These issues vary across markets. Businesses in the Philippines and Indonesia continue to face infrastructure and connectivity barriers, while SMEs in Singapore and Vietnam are more concerned about security and system integration.

Additionally, 63% of respondents said their current payment systems may need upgrades or complete replacement to support emerging payment technologies and changing consumer preferences.

Cross-Border Expansion Becoming a Priority

Another major trend shaping the region’s e-commerce future is cross-border trade.

Although only 49% of SMEs currently engage in international selling, nearly three-quarters said they plan to expand overseas within the next two years. Businesses in Indonesia and Thailand are among the most aggressive in targeting new regional customer segments.

IDC estimates that improving SME participation in cross-border e-commerce could unlock an additional US$20.8 billion in regional sales by 2029. That would represent a 7.1% increase in Southeast Asia’s total e-commerce value.

For many SMEs, expanding internationally is no longer just an ambition. It is increasingly becoming a necessary growth strategy in an interconnected digital economy.

2C2P by Antom Highlights Need for Simplified Payment Solutions

According to Worachat Luxkanalode, businesses across Southeast Asia need more flexible and scalable payment solutions as the digital commerce landscape becomes more fragmented.

He explained that SMEs remain central to the region’s economic growth, contributing more than half of GDP in several major Southeast Asian markets while employing a significant share of the workforce.

Luxkanalode noted that many businesses are still navigating the complexities of digital transformation, especially as payment ecosystems evolve differently across countries.

He added that businesses need payment platforms capable of simplifying operations, supporting diverse local payment methods, and enabling smoother cross-border expansion through unified systems and APIs.

The latest projections reinforce Southeast Asia’s position as one of the world’s most important digital commerce regions. Beyond rising online sales, the report highlights how mobile payments, local financial technology solutions, and SME participation are transforming the region’s economic landscape.

For consumers, this means faster and more flexible ways to shop online. For businesses, particularly SMEs, it creates opportunities to reach wider markets and scale beyond local borders.

As digital payment adoption accelerates and more SMEs modernize their operations, Southeast Asia’s e-commerce ecosystem appears poised for another wave of long-term growth.
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FedEx Expands Clark Gateway to Boost Philippine Trade Connectivity


As e-commerce and cross-border trade continue accelerating across Asia, logistics infrastructure is becoming more critical than ever for businesses trying to stay competitive in a fast-moving global economy.

That’s why FedEx’s latest investment in the Philippines is drawing attention beyond the logistics industry.

The global express transportation company recently announced the expansion of its Clark gateway facility, reinforcing the country’s growing role as a major regional logistics and trans-shipment hub within the FedEx Asia Pacific network.

Located in Clark, Pampanga, the upgraded gateway aims to improve shipment flow reliability, strengthen regional connectivity, and support the continued rise of e-commerce and international trade throughout the region.

FedEx Clark Expansion Signals Growing Confidence in the Philippines

Once completed, the expanded Clark gateway will span more than 78,000 square meters and feature upgraded operational and handling capabilities designed to support faster, more flexible shipment movement.

The project reflects FedEx’s long-term confidence in the Philippines as an increasingly strategic location for regional logistics operations.

According to Masamichi Ujiie, President of FedEx North Pacific and South Pacific, the expansion strengthens the company’s ability to support Philippine businesses while improving connectivity to global markets.

He emphasized that enhancing the Clark facility is part of FedEx’s broader effort to build a smarter and more resilient logistics network across Asia Pacific.

As online commerce and international shipping demands continue growing, investments like this are becoming essential for improving supply chain efficiency and maintaining reliable delivery services across borders.

Government Leaders Highlight the Importance of Logistics Infrastructure

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by several high-ranking Philippine government officials and industry leaders, underscoring the economic importance of the project.

Among those present were:
  • Frederick Go, Secretary of the Department of Finance
  • Cristina Roque, Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry
  • Joshua Bingcang of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority
  • Agnes Devanadera of the Clark Development Corporation
  • Mybelle V. Aragon-GoBio of Robinsons Land Corporation

Secretary Frederick Go noted that the expansion would deepen global connectivity for Filipino businesses while strengthening local trade capabilities.

As Asia Pacific continues seeing strong economic growth, the Philippines is positioning itself to benefit from increased regional trade activity through improved logistics infrastructure and international connectivity.

Why Clark Is Becoming a Major Logistics Hub

Over the past several years, Clark has steadily evolved into one of the country’s most important logistics and transportation centers.

Its strategic location outside the heavily congested areas of Metro Manila, combined with airport accessibility and infrastructure development, has made it increasingly attractive for international logistics companies.

FedEx first opened its Clark gateway in 2021 before signing a land lease agreement with Luzon International Premiere Airport Development in 2024 to support future expansion plans.

The latest investment further strengthens Clark’s role in handling express shipments, freight services, and growing e-commerce demand throughout Southeast Asia.

For businesses, stronger logistics infrastructure often translates to:
  • Faster shipping times
  • Improved reliability
  • Better access to global markets
  • Increased flexibility in supply chain operations

These factors are especially important as more Filipino businesses expand internationally through digital commerce platforms.

Sustainability Features Are Part of the New Facility Design

Beyond operational improvements, FedEx is also incorporating sustainability-focused features into the new Clark gateway.

The facility’s design includes:
  • Energy-efficient glazing and insulated materials
  • High-performance roofing systems
  • LED lighting and skylights
  • Electric vehicle charging stations
  • Water-efficient fixtures
  • Rainwater collection systems
  • Power optimization equipment
  • Future-ready solar power provisions

These additions align with the growing push among global companies to improve operational sustainability while reducing long-term environmental impact.

As logistics operations continue scaling globally, balancing efficiency with sustainability is becoming an increasingly important priority across the industry.

The Expansion Reflects the Future of Regional Trade

The expansion of the FedEx Clark gateway arrives at a time when regional commerce is becoming more digitally connected, borderless, and time-sensitive.

Businesses today expect faster fulfillment, smoother cross-border shipping, and more resilient logistics networks capable of handling rising e-commerce demand.

For the Philippines, investments like this help strengthen the country’s position within the broader Asia Pacific trade ecosystem.

And for local businesses looking to grow internationally, improved logistics infrastructure can play a major role in opening access to larger global markets.

As cross-border trade continues evolving, connectivity itself is becoming one of the most valuable forms of infrastructure modern economies can invest in.
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How Southeast Asia’s Heritage Beauty Rituals Are Shaping Organic Skincare

Monday, May 18, 2026


As beauty trends move faster than ever, many consumers are starting to look beyond flashy packaging, complicated ingredient lists, and viral skincare launches. Across Southeast Asia, a quieter but more meaningful movement is beginning to redefine modern beauty, one rooted in culture, sustainability, and traditional self-care practices passed down through generations.

In both the Philippines and Indonesia, organic skincare is no longer just a niche category. It’s becoming part of a larger shift toward intentional wellness, ethical consumption, and locally sourced beauty products that celebrate heritage instead of replacing it.

That growing demand is helping reshape the region’s skincare industry, especially as more consumers seek products that feel natural, culturally grounded, and environmentally responsible.

Organic Skincare Continues to Grow in the Philippines

The Philippines’ organic skincare market is projected to reach USD 1.5 billion by 2026, reflecting the increasing demand for plant-based and sustainable beauty alternatives.

But beyond the numbers, consumer priorities are clearly changing.

More Filipinos are becoming conscious about ingredient sourcing, cruelty-free production, environmental impact, and the stories behind the products they use daily. Across Southeast Asia, around 50% of consumers are reportedly moving away from mass-produced imported beauty products in favor of locally sourced alternatives tied to sustainability and cultural identity.

This trend is also creating opportunities for community-led enterprises and women entrepreneurs who are turning indigenous ingredients into modern skincare products.

In provinces like Quezon and Bicol, locally sourced coconut and pili ingredients are being transformed into aromatherapy products, oils, and eco-friendly skincare items that support both rural livelihoods and biodiversity preservation.

Instead of treating traditional ingredients as outdated practices, many brands are now repositioning them as premium wellness solutions deeply connected to local ecosystems and heritage.

Indonesia’s Nelamayu Tradisional Revives Kaili Beauty Traditions


A similar movement is unfolding in Indonesia through businesses like Nelamayu Tradisional, founded by Nelam Ayu Kusuma in Central Sulawesi.

The brand draws inspiration from ancestral self-care rituals practiced by Kaili women, particularly a bridal tradition known as nombungu. One important element of this ritual is badabida, a traditional black sticky rice scrub used to smooth and brighten the skin before marriage ceremonies.

What began as inherited family knowledge eventually evolved into a modern skincare venture grounded in cultural preservation and sustainability.

Nelam’s inspiration came directly from remedies passed down by her grandmother, a village herbalist who relied on rice, medicinal leaves, turmeric, and local botanicals to treat illnesses and support wellness during difficult periods, including the Japanese occupation.

By studying the benefits of these traditional ingredients more formally, Nelam discovered their potential in modern skincare. Black sticky rice, for example, is associated with circulation benefits, while turmeric and Javanese ginger contain anti-inflammatory properties commonly valued in natural wellness traditions.

Traditional Ingredients Meet Modern Skincare Innovation

Rather than abandoning tradition in favor of mass production, Nelamayu Tradisional focuses on modernizing ancestral practices while preserving their cultural roots.

The brand transformed traditional badabida powder into a contemporary body scrub and later introduced bada kumba, a cooling skincare powder designed to support skin recovery and overall skin health.

Since launching the business in 2018, customer feedback has helped fuel the company’s growth. Many users reportedly shared how the products improved hydration and offered comfort during different stages of wellness and self-care.

These testimonials became an important part of the brand’s identity, reinforcing that emotional connection and lived experience often matter just as much as marketing trends in beauty.

Sustainability Is Becoming Central to Southeast Asian Beauty

One of the most interesting aspects of brands like Nelamayu Tradisional is how closely beauty and sustainability are connected.

The business sources black sticky rice directly from farmers in West Dolo, helping create a stable local supply chain while supporting traditional agriculture. Production also follows a circular economy model where waste is minimized through creative reuse.

Roasting ash from production is repurposed for household use, while rice bran is returned to farmers as animal feed instead of discarded.

This approach reflects a broader movement toward restorative economies, where environmental sustainability and community welfare are treated as interconnected goals rather than separate priorities.

Support from organizations like Gampiri Interaksi also helped the business navigate licensing, branding, product development, and market expansion while maintaining its cultural authenticity.

According to Gampiri Interaksi representative Nedya Sinintha Maulaning, one of the biggest challenges for traditional skincare businesses is balancing heritage preservation with modern safety standards and regulations.

That challenge is becoming increasingly relevant as demand for natural skincare products grows globally.

Why Consumers Are Returning to Heritage Beauty Practices

Today’s skincare consumers are more informed and selective than ever before.

People are paying closer attention to where ingredients come from, how products are made, and whether brands align with their personal values around sustainability and wellness.

In many ways, the return to traditional skincare rituals reflects a desire for slower, more intentional forms of self-care that feel emotionally grounded rather than trend-driven.

Across Southeast Asia, cultural traditions are no longer being viewed as outdated practices needing modernization. Instead, they’re becoming sources of innovation, identity, and economic opportunity.

For biodiversity-rich countries like the Philippines and Indonesia, this creates a unique opportunity to reshape the global beauty conversation through indigenous ingredients, community knowledge, and sustainable production models.

As consumers continue embracing more conscious beauty routines, the future of skincare may depend less on chasing the next viral ingredient and more on reconnecting with traditions that have quietly endured for generations.
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Why Southeast Asia’s Payment Future Depends on Customer Experience


Digital payments are no longer just about convenience. Across Southeast Asia, they’re becoming a major part of the customer experience itself.

As the region’s digital economy surpassed US$300 billion in gross merchandise value in 2025, businesses are increasingly realizing that how customers pay can influence whether they return at all. Fast, seamless, and trustworthy payment experiences are quickly becoming competitive advantages rather than optional upgrades.

From online shopping to in-store purchases and mobile transactions, consumers now expect payments to feel effortless every single time. And according to fintech platform Fiuu, the next phase of payment innovation in Southeast Asia will be driven less by payment adoption alone and more by reducing friction throughout the entire customer journey.

Digital Payments in Southeast Asia Are Growing Rapidly

The numbers behind Southeast Asia’s digital payment boom continue to climb at an impressive pace.

In Malaysia, e-payment transactions reportedly rose by 25% to 18.4 billion in 2025, while DuitNow QR transaction volume doubled to 3 billion. Meanwhile in the Philippines, digital retail payments made up 57.4% of total transaction volume in 2024, alongside a 148.7% year-on-year increase in merchants accepting QR Ph.

Singapore is seeing similar momentum. Digital payments adoption there reached 92% in 2025, with digital wallets accounting for a growing share of both e-commerce and point-of-sale transactions.

Together, these trends reveal a region where payment ecosystems are becoming increasingly digital, fragmented, and experience-focused. Customers are no longer simply choosing between cash, cards, QR codes, or digital wallets. They are evaluating how smooth, familiar, and secure every transaction feels.

That shift is changing how businesses approach commerce entirely.

Why Customer Experience Now Shapes Payment Innovation

For many consumers, a frustrating payment process can immediately weaken trust in a business, even when the product itself is appealing.

Long checkout flows, confusing payment systems, delayed confirmations, or repeated verification requests can quietly discourage repeat purchases. In today’s highly competitive digital economy, businesses are learning that convenience alone is no longer enough. Reliability and emotional confidence matter too.

Research from the Baymard Institute highlights just how costly payment friction can become. The organization estimates average online cart abandonment at 70.19%, with many shoppers leaving because checkout processes feel too long, complicated, or insecure.

While the data is global rather than Southeast Asia-specific, the takeaway resonates strongly across the region’s fast-growing digital commerce landscape.

Even when customers fully intend to buy, friction during payment can still interrupt the transaction.

Payment Expectations Are Expanding Beyond Online Shopping

What’s particularly interesting is how these expectations are now extending far beyond e-commerce platforms.

Consumers increasingly expect fast and secure payment experiences everywhere, including:
  • Physical retail stores
  • Event booths
  • Pop-up markets
  • Delivery transactions
  • Mobile service interactions

Whether someone is paying online or face-to-face, the expectation remains largely the same: the process should feel quick, familiar, and dependable.

For smaller businesses, however, keeping up with those expectations can become operationally challenging. Many merchants want to offer modern digital payment options without investing heavily in expensive hardware or complicated infrastructure.

That’s where software-based payment acceptance is becoming more important.

Software-Based Payments Are Changing Merchant Experiences

Instead of relying solely on dedicated payment terminals, more businesses are beginning to adopt software-driven solutions that allow them to accept contactless payments using devices they already own.

This approach lowers the barrier for merchants who want to modernize payment experiences without adding unnecessary operational costs.

For customers, the advantage is simplicity. Transactions feel more consistent across different environments and payment touchpoints.

For businesses, the value goes beyond convenience. Software-based payment systems allow merchants to serve customers in more locations while reducing interruptions and streamlining daily operations.


According to Eng Sheng Guan, CEO of Fiuu, businesses that succeed in building customer loyalty will not necessarily be those offering the highest number of payment methods.

Instead, he believes the real differentiator will be creating payment experiences that consistently feel effortless, familiar, and secure regardless of where transactions happen.

Why Embedded Security Matters More Than Visible Security

As payment experiences become faster and more mobile, businesses are also rethinking how security should work.

Traditionally, payment safety often depended on visible security measures such as repeated verification steps, manual authentication layers, or repeated entry of sensitive information.

While those protections still matter, they can sometimes interrupt the customer journey and create additional friction during transactions.

The trend now is shifting toward embedded security, where protection happens more seamlessly in the background.

One example is tokenization, which replaces sensitive payment information with secure digital representations instead of transmitting raw card details repeatedly.

This approach helps reduce exposure to fraud while making the payment process smoother for customers.

For businesses, that balance between safety and simplicity is becoming increasingly important. Consumers want reassurance that transactions are secure, but they also expect the process to remain fast and convenient.

Southeast Asia’s Next Payment Shift Is About Trust

As digital commerce continues evolving throughout Southeast Asia, payment systems are becoming more than technical infrastructure hidden behind transactions.

They are increasingly part of the overall customer experience.

The businesses most likely to build long-term customer loyalty may not simply be the ones offering the most payment methods. They will likely be the ones making payments feel intuitive, frictionless, and trustworthy every single time.

That broader shift reflects how commerce itself is changing across the region. Payment innovation is no longer only about enabling transactions. It’s about removing barriers, strengthening trust, and creating experiences customers feel comfortable returning to again and again.

And in an increasingly digital economy, that experience could become one of the most valuable differentiators a business has.
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Palo Alto Networks Launches Idira for AI-Powered Identity Security


As artificial intelligence rapidly transforms how businesses operate, cybersecurity threats are evolving just as quickly. And according to Palo Alto Networks, identity security is becoming one of the biggest challenges modern enterprises now face.

The global cybersecurity company has officially introduced Idira™, a next-generation identity security platform designed to help organizations manage and secure human, machine, and AI-driven identities in one unified system.

Announced on May 15, 2026, Idira represents a major step forward in how businesses approach privileged access management, particularly in an era where AI agents and automated systems increasingly operate with access to sensitive company data and infrastructure.

For enterprises navigating the rise of AI-powered workplaces, the platform aims to solve a growing problem: how to secure identities that no longer belong solely to employees.

Why Identity Security Matters More in the AI Era

For years, cybersecurity strategies largely focused on preventing hackers from breaking into systems. But according to Palo Alto Networks, today’s attacks increasingly happen through compromised identities instead.

In other words, cybercriminals are often “logging in” rather than breaking in.

That shift has become more concerning as businesses adopt AI tools, machine identities, automated workflows, and agentic systems capable of operating autonomously across enterprise environments.

Palo Alto Networks revealed that machine and AI identities now outnumber human identities by 109 to 1. At the same time, identity-related breaches continue rising, with the company citing that nine out of ten organizations experienced an identity-related security breach over the past year.

Traditional privileged access management systems were built for a different era, where only select administrators or executives held elevated access. But in AI-driven enterprises, privileged access has expanded far beyond a small group of users.

That’s where Idira comes in.

What Is Idira and How Does It Work?

Idira is designed as a unified identity security platform that helps organizations discover, control, and govern every type of identity operating within their systems.

This includes:
  • Human identities
  • Machine identities
  • AI and agentic identities

The platform focuses heavily on eliminating what cybersecurity experts call “standing privileges,” where users or systems maintain constant elevated access even when it isn’t actively needed.

Instead, Idira introduces dynamic and just-in-time privilege controls that grant temporary access only when necessary. This approach significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access and identity-based cyberattacks.

According to Peretz Regev, Chief Product and Technology Officer for Idira at Palo Alto Networks, identity has effectively become the “new battleground” in AI-powered enterprises.

Regev explained that the platform combines traditional privileged access management expertise with broader machine identity security capabilities, allowing organizations to better protect increasingly complex digital ecosystems.

Key Features of the Idira Identity Security Platform

Palo Alto Networks says Idira is built around three major functions aimed at modernizing identity security for businesses:

Discover Identity Risk

The platform uses AI-driven visibility tools to continuously identify identity vulnerabilities, access paths, and entitlement risks across enterprise systems.

This helps organizations detect potential threats faster before they escalate into major security incidents.

Control Every Privilege

Idira applies dynamic access management principles such as Zero Standing Privilege (ZSP) and just-in-time access controls.

Rather than giving users permanent elevated permissions, access is granted temporarily based on real-time needs.

Automate Governance

The platform also uses AI-powered governance policies to automate compliance and identity lifecycle management, reducing the manual workload for security teams while improving consistency.

Existing CyberArk Customers Will Gain Expanded Capabilities

One of the biggest developments surrounding Idira is its integration path for existing CyberArk customers.

Organizations already using CyberArk SaaS solutions can access various Idira enhancements depending on their current licensing structure.

According to Palo Alto Networks, customers using traditional PAM, modern PAM, workforce access, or machine identity security products will gain access to improved discovery tools, user experience upgrades, and expanded identity protection features.

Additional capabilities for machine and AI identity security can also be added through new licensing options.

This integration strategy positions Idira not just as a standalone product launch, but as an evolution of existing identity security infrastructure for enterprise customers already operating within the CyberArk ecosystem.

Industry Analysts Say Identity Security Is Evolving Rapidly

Cybersecurity analysts are increasingly emphasizing that identity management is no longer simply about storing credentials securely.

Will Townsend, Chief Analyst at LoneStar Advisory & Research, noted that enterprise environments have evolved into complex networks of human users, machines, and autonomous AI-driven identities.

According to Townsend, identity security now needs to function as a broader operational framework rather than a simple checkpoint system.

That broader shift is why companies across industries are investing more heavily in AI-powered identity governance, zero trust architectures, and automated access management technologies.

Why Idira Reflects the Future of Enterprise Cybersecurity

As businesses continue integrating AI into daily operations, identity security is quickly becoming one of the most critical areas of cybersecurity investment.

The challenge is no longer just protecting employee accounts. Organizations now need visibility and control over thousands, or even millions, of machine-generated and AI-driven identities interacting across systems continuously.

Platforms like Idira reflect how cybersecurity strategies are evolving to meet that reality.

By combining AI-driven governance, dynamic privilege controls, and centralized identity management, Palo Alto Networks is positioning Idira as a platform built specifically for the AI enterprise era.

For companies managing increasingly complex digital ecosystems, the launch signals a broader industry shift toward proactive identity security rather than reactive identity management.

Idira is now generally available, with additional platform capabilities expected to roll out later this year.
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TP Philippines at 30: Building Future-Ready Filipino Talent

Friday, May 15, 2026


For three decades, TP in the Philippines has quietly become one of the biggest contributors to the country’s booming IT-BPM industry. What started in 1996 as a growing outsourcing operation has evolved into a nationwide workforce ecosystem that now supports thousands of Filipino careers, regional communities, and digital transformation initiatives.

As the Philippines continues to strengthen its reputation as a global outsourcing and business services hub, TP’s 30-year milestone arrives at a time when conversations around AI, digital jobs, and inclusive economic growth are becoming more important than ever.

Today, the company employs around 60,000 people across 26 sites nationwide, making it one of the largest employers in the country’s business process services sector. But beyond the numbers, TP is positioning itself as a long-term partner in building a future-ready Filipino workforce.

The IT-BPM sector remains one of the strongest pillars of the Philippine economy. It continues to create jobs, attract global investments, and open career opportunities for Filipinos in both urban centers and emerging regional hubs.

For many professionals, the industry has also become a gateway to leadership careers, digital skills development, and financial stability.

Over the years, TP in the Philippines has expanded alongside the industry’s rapid growth, adapting to changing technologies while continuing to invest heavily in people development.

Now, with artificial intelligence reshaping the future of work, the company says its next chapter will focus on combining innovation with human-centered customer experience.

According to Rahul Jolly, CEO of TP in the Philippines, the future of the industry will rely on balancing AI-driven efficiency with empathy and human connection.

“The future of the Business Process Services industry will be defined by how effectively organizations combine AI, digital innovation, and human empathy.”

He added that Filipino professionals remain globally recognized not only for their skills, but also for the warmth and service culture they bring to customer interactions.

Building an AI-Ready Filipino Workforce

One of the company’s biggest priorities today is workforce transformation.

As global businesses increasingly demand tech-enabled support services, organizations are under pressure to help employees adapt to more advanced and specialized roles. TP says it is responding through digital upskilling programs, leadership development initiatives, and future-of-work training strategies.

In 2025 alone, nearly 1,000 employees earned promotions within the company, reflecting its focus on internal career mobility and leadership growth.

Training performance has also remained strong, with high trainer satisfaction scores and more than 95% assisted transitioning KPI attainment. These programs are designed to prepare employees for more complex, technology-driven work environments while helping them stay competitive in a rapidly changing global market.

For many employees, long-term career growth inside the company has become a defining part of the experience.

From Account Manager to Senior Vice President


TP Operations Senior Vice President Joy Raymundo shared how her own professional journey reflects the company’s culture of career development and internal growth.

Since joining the organization in 2015 as an account manager, she has steadily moved into more senior leadership positions over the years.

Raymundo said the company’s support for employee growth played a major role in her progression.

“It’s inspiring to be part of an organization where growth is truly possible, especially for those who stay committed and want to make a difference.”

Stories like hers continue to resonate with many young Filipino professionals seeking long-term career opportunities rather than short-term employment.

Expanding Opportunities Beyond Metro Manila

One major shift happening across the IT-BPM industry is the growing expansion outside Metro Manila.

As more companies recognize the value of regional talent, opportunities are increasingly reaching provinces and emerging cities across the country.

For TP, this decentralization strategy has become a key part of its broader economic inclusion efforts. Around 38% of its workforce is now based outside the National Capital Region.

The company’s newly launched Davao Uprise site in early 2026 also signals continued investment in Mindanao, helping create more accessible employment opportunities closer to home for many Filipinos.

This regional expansion not only supports local economies but also helps reduce migration pressures toward Metro Manila.

Inclusive Hiring and Skills Development

Beyond expansion, TP is also strengthening programs focused on inclusive hiring and workforce participation.

Its TP Skills Training to Employment Program or TP STEP aims to help individuals from underserved communities gain access to formal employment opportunities through technical and soft skills training.

The initiative works closely with local government units, NGOs, and training institutions to bridge skills gaps and improve employability.

One of the program’s notable outcomes came from Pasig City, where TP STEP achieved a 78.33% hiring rate among participants.

Programs like these are becoming increasingly important as companies and governments alike push for more inclusive economic growth and wider access to digital careers.

A Bigger Role in Nation-Building

As the Philippine economy becomes more digital and globally connected, companies in the IT-BPM sector are expected to play a bigger role beyond customer service operations alone.

Talent development, regional expansion, AI readiness, and inclusive hiring are now part of a larger national conversation about long-term economic resilience.

For TP in the Philippines, reaching 30 years is not simply about longevity. It reflects how deeply the company has become woven into the country’s evolving workforce landscape.

With continued investments in innovation, people, and regional growth, TP appears focused on helping shape a future where Filipino talent remains globally competitive while creating opportunities that reach more communities nationwide.
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Fullerton Health PH Partners with Nurture Wellness Village


Fullerton Health and Nurture Wellness Village Launch Wellness Tourism Package in Tagaytay

Wellness travel is evolving beyond spa weekends and quick staycations. More travelers today are looking for experiences that not only help them relax, but also support long-term health and overall well-being.

In the Philippines, this growing demand for preventive healthcare and mindful travel has opened the door for a new kind of wellness tourism experience, one that combines medical care, nature, and holistic healing in a more intentional way.

This is exactly what Fullerton Health Philippines and Nurture Wellness Village are offering through their newly launched wellness tourism partnership.

The collaboration combines executive health screening services with a relaxing eco-therapy retreat in Tagaytay, giving guests the opportunity to focus on both physical health and mental wellness in one integrated experience.

A Wellness Retreat Designed for Preventive Healthcare

As more professionals prioritize preventive healthcare, executive health screening programs have become increasingly popular for individuals who want early detection and comprehensive health assessments without disrupting their busy schedules.

Fullerton Health Philippines, known as the country’s first dedicated Executive Health Screening and advanced diagnostic imaging center, is now pairing these medical services with an overnight nature retreat at Nurture Wellness Village.

The package includes a comprehensive executive health screening along with accommodations for two guests at the wellness resort, allowing clients to recover, rest, and recharge after their medical appointments.

Guests may also customize their stay with optional detox treatments, spa therapies, and wellness activities available within the village.

For travelers seeking slower and more mindful experiences, complimentary morning Tai Qi sessions are also offered to in-house guests.

Wellness Tourism Continues to Grow

Globally, wellness tourism has become one of the fastest-growing segments within the travel industry as more people seek trips focused on health, relaxation, and self-care.

Instead of purely leisure-based vacations, many travelers now want experiences that help improve sleep, reduce stress, support mental clarity, and encourage healthier lifestyles.

Tagaytay naturally fits this type of tourism because of its cooler climate, lush landscapes, and calming atmosphere away from the intensity of Metro Manila.

According to Cathy Brillantes-Turvill, President of Nurture Wellness Village, the partnership reflects a larger goal of positioning the Philippines as a serious destination for medical and wellness tourism.

She explained that the collaboration combines nature, Filipino wellness traditions, holistic therapies, and executive healthcare services to help individuals become more proactive about their health in a restorative environment.

Combining Luxury, Rest, and Medical Care

One of the key appeals of the partnership is convenience.

Busy professionals and international travelers often struggle to make time for health screenings because of demanding schedules. By pairing preventive healthcare with a wellness retreat, the experience feels less clinical and more restorative.

Carmie de Leon, Country General Manager of Radlink Philippines Corporation and EHS Lead-Philippines of Fullerton Health, described the offering as an opportunity for guests to prioritize their health while enjoying a relaxing getaway.

She noted that clients benefit from private and efficient executive health screening services while also experiencing the rejuvenating atmosphere of Tagaytay’s eco-therapy environment.

The idea reflects a growing shift toward wellness experiences that focus not only on treatment, but also on recovery, prevention, and overall quality of life.

The Philippines as a Wellness Tourism Destination

Beyond the individual package itself, the partnership also highlights the Philippines’ growing potential within the global wellness tourism industry.

According to Darren Lim, Senior Vice President of Fullerton Health’s Group CCO Office, combining internationally competitive healthcare services with uniquely Filipino wellness experiences creates a more compelling travel offering for visitors across the region.

The Philippines already has many of the qualities wellness travelers actively seek: tropical natural landscapes, holistic healing traditions, warm hospitality, and English-speaking healthcare professionals.

By integrating these strengths with modern medical services, the country continues to strengthen its appeal as a destination for both relaxation and preventive healthcare.

A More Intentional Way to Travel and Recharge

The Fullerton Health Philippines and Nurture Wellness Village package starts at PHP 30,500 and offers a more holistic approach to wellness travel.

Instead of separating healthcare from leisure, the experience encourages guests to see health maintenance, rest, and relaxation as interconnected parts of overall well-being.

As wellness tourism continues to grow globally, experiences like this may become increasingly attractive to travelers seeking meaningful escapes that support both physical and mental health.

For those wanting to combine preventive healthcare with a peaceful nature retreat, this collaboration offers a refreshing way to slow down, recharge, and invest in long-term wellness.


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