BPO industry to Aquino: Please solve power shortage, traffic jams

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The business process outsourcing industry has grown by leaps and bounds in the past several years, but industry leaders fear stunted growth amid energy and traffic problems in the country.

While power and telecommunications improved and transportation systems expanded, more needs to be done, said Information Technology (IT) and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) Chairman Danilo Sebastian Reyes.

“The looming power shortage in 2015 is a possible concern. We hope the government will act quickly to assure our investors,” Reyes said during the International IT-Business Process Management (BPM) Summit.

“The traffic situation used to be a lesser concern for our industry as most of our workers work at night. However, we’ve been getting more business accounts from Australasia. And this puts our workers in the day shift. We need your support Mr. President to help (address) the traffic issues,” Reyes explained.

Aquino, who was the keynote speaker at the event, answered in jest, pointing out that those in the sector were also “contributors” to the traffic.

“‎As you know these jobs take on a multiplier effect. They empower your employees to frequent convenience stores and coffee shops; to buy more prepaid load for their mobile phones; to pay their rent, if not invest in condominiums for themselves; and to ride public transport, if not purchase their own vehicles,” he said, adding, “I’m told also that traffic is now—you’re part of the traffic, being victims and also contributors. ”

He said the industry’s growth is expected to push automobile sales.

Nevertheless, he said the government will continue to aid them in their growth.

“As your industry discusses how to approach and overcome the challenges that arise, we will also be there, as a constant and steady partner. Government will continue to listen to your concerns and proposals, all to ensure that the Philippines stays a global leader in IT-BPM far into the future,” Aquino said.

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