Iloilo plans beachfront IT parks, BPO centers
ILOILO CITY, PHILIPPINES — Iloilo province is looking to boost its technology and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sectors alongside its agricultural front.
During an interview, Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. revealed plans for building growth centers to attract IT and light industrial investments. The centers aim to boost jobs and businesses in the local economy.
The Governor also cited Iloilo’s educational resources as a strong selling point for the BPO sector.
“They like it here,” Defensor said, hinting at interest from Indian investors.
Uniquely, the government is eyeing its coastal areas for IT park development.
“We are trying to promote our coastline to IT parks so we can maximize it. We have initial meetings with investors and they agree with our idea of why not have an IT park along the beach,” Defensor noted, as a strategic alternative to competing with tourist magnets like Boracay Island.
However, he also admitted that infrastructure remains a hurdle for immediate light industrial development in the province. To solve this, he revealed they are now looking at plans to expand Iloilo International Airport, with proposals already submitted for review.
Focusing on these initiatives, Iloilo aims to become a leading player in technology and outsourcing.
