2. Cutting-Edge Panel Discussion: Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a cutting-edge panel discussion covering topics such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, talent development, and sustainable business practices among others. These sessions provided valuable knowledge and practical skills to drive transformation in various industries.

3. Innovative Product Launches: Several companies chose the summit as the platform to unveil their latest technological advancements. Notable launches included a revolutionary AI-powered HR/Talent Development tool by Jobs on Demand (JOD), and a groundbreaking green building showcase by JEG Tower. Other exhibitors also showcased their products and services that are found useful to the ITBPM industry.

4. Networking Opportunities: The summit facilitated extensive networking opportunities, enabling attendees to connect with peers, potential partners, and investors. The interactive networking sessions were instrumental in fostering collaborations and business growth.

5. Recognition of Excellence: The summit concluded with the CIB.O IT-BPM Awards Ceremony, honoring organizations who have made significant contributions to the field of digital transformation. Awards were presented in the following categories:

𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐊𝐞𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫 |  We had the honor of hosting Mr. Ramon Evan T. Ruiz, the Regional Director of TESDA Region 7, as our distinguished keynote speaker. Mr. Ruiz delivered an insightful message, emphasizing the pivotal role of the IT-BPM industry. He also presided over the induction ceremony for our incoming CIB.O Board of Trustees.

𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐬 | Our event introduced the dynamic incoming CIB.O Board of Trustees, representing diverse affiliations and adding strength to our organization:

• Mr. Aseem Roy, Country Head, Wipro Philippines, Inc.

• Ms. Cherry Durano, Cebu Site Lead, Accenture, Inc.

• Mr. Wilson Ng, President, NgKhai Devt. Corp.

• Ms. Joslyn Canon, Director for External Relations, Qualfon PH Inc.

• Dr. Cherry Sta. Romana, Dean – CCS, CIT-U

• Ms. Moma Ortega, Dean – CCS, UC

• Dr. Jovelyn Cuizon, Dean – SCS, USJ-R

• Mr. Kent De la Calzada, Visayas Business Head, PLDT Enterprise

Cebu City, May 26, 2023 – The Cebu IT BPM Organization (CIB.O), the leading industry board representing the IT BPM sector in Cebu and the region, successfully concluded its annual Transformation Summit on May 26, 2023. The event, marking a significant return to physical gatherings post-pandemic, brought together renowned experts and decision-makers to delve into vital topics such as fintech, workplace innovation, artificial intelligence, and global shared services in the era of digital transformation. 

Held at the prestigious Sinulog Grand Ballroom in the City Sports Club, Cebu Business Park, the 2023 Transformation Summit: Beyond the Next Level Play drew a remarkable crowd of over 350 participants. 

“The summit serves as a platform for thought leaders, industry experts, decision-makers, and visionaries to converge and discuss the trends, strategies, and advancements that will shape the future of the industry,” said Summit Chair and CIB.O Trustee, Darwin John Moises, in his opening message. The IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) President, Jack Madrid, delved into the key updates of the national IT BPM industry. Madrid tackled questions and inquiries surrounding the emerging hot topic of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI). He said that Gen AI poses a dual nature—both a formidable challenge and an exhilarating opportunity for the industry, capable of enhancing its processes rather than becoming a competitive force. A key highlight of the event was the revival of the renowned 6th IT BPM Industry Award Gala Night, the largest local award-giving body in the industry. This annual recognition honors and celebrates the remarkable contributions of prominent companies in the region, acknowledging their role in employment creation and economic progress. The 2023 edition featured twenty-three (23) nominees from various industry players, culminating in the recognition of ten (10) outstanding winners of the coveted Top IT BPM Company of the Year award. 

CIB.O President and WIPRO Philippines’ Country Manager cited a significant development and updates of the national IT BPM industry. “We cannot overstate the power and impact of the Cebu IT BPM and its players in the industry’s development. We are not just celebrating the companies who will be receiving an award, but the collective contribution and support of each and every company in making Cebu the premier IT BPM choice IT/BPM location for higher value services”, the newly elected IBPAP Board of Trustees added. 

The esteemed awardees, listed below in no particular order, exemplify excellence and innovation in the IT BPM sector: 

• Accenture, Inc.
• Cognizant Technology Solutions, Inc.
• Conduent Business Services Philippines, Inc.
• Foundever™
• JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. – Philippine Global Service Center
• OfficePartners360 Inc.
• Qualfon Philippines, Inc.
• Tech Mahindra LTD
• Teleperformance Philippines
• WIPRO Philippines Inc. 

Dr. Melanie de Ocampo, a member of the CIB.O Board of Trustees and Dean of the School of Business and Economics at the University of San Carlos, closed the event stating that Cebu's IT BPM industry will endure any tempest and emerge fortified. She further said, “As Cebuanos, whether by birth or at heart, we stand united, forging a path towards a resplendent future." 

Describing the event as a resounding success, CIB.O's Executive Director, Buddy Villasis, extended his heartfelt gratitude to the attendees and all contributors who made the summit possible. He stated, "Throughout the summit, we witnessed a remarkable exchange of ideas, knowledge, and experiences, all aimed at driving transformation and progress in our respective fields. The passion and enthusiasm displayed by each delegate were truly inspiring and served as a catalyst for meaningful discussions and collaborations. As we move forward, let us carry the knowledge and inspiration gained from this summit and continue to drive positive change in our organizations and communities. Together, we have the power to shape the future and make a difference in the world." 

WIPRO PHILIPPINES, INC. PROFILE: 

The company is a regional subsidiary of Wipro Limited, a leading global information technology, consulting and business process-services company. Wipro harnesses the power of cognitive computing, hyper-automation, robotics, cloud, analytics and emerging technologies to help their clients adapt to the digital world and make them successful. A company recognized globally for its comprehensive portfolio of services, strong commitment to sustainability and good corporate citizenship.   Wipro currently has over 200,000 dedicated employees serving clients across six continents.

Wipro Philippines, a Hall of Famer in International ICT Awards, boasts of five sites in the Philippines, all of them are ISO 27001:2013 certified. All sites undergo SSAE16 audit on an annual basis to ascertain ITGC controls standardization across the organization.

Wipro Philippines received unqualified audit report in the last 2 years from SSAE16 standpoint, signifying that the governance and control mechanism implemented across Wipro Philippines are benchmarked globally and are best in class.

As CIB.O Executive Director, Mr. Villasis will be responsible for the daily operations of the organization ensuring that policies, programs and projects are implemented according to the directions set by the organization. 

He will oversee budgeting, personnel and strategic planning among other tasks ensuring that the interests of the organization’s members are served effectively in line with CIB.O’s vision that Cebu will be the international choice IT/BPM location for higher value services and to develop and promote the strengths of Cebu and sustain the growth of its IT/BPM industry.