CIB.O concludes annual Transformation Summit

CEBU, Philippines — 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 23 nominees from various industry players, culminating in the recognition of 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.

•              FoundeverTM

•              JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. – Philippine Global Service Center

•              OfficePartners360 Inc.

•              Qualfon Philippines, Inc.

•              Tech Mahindra LTD

•              Teleperformance Philippines

•              WIPRO Philippines Inc.

During the awarding ceremony, Cebu City Mayor Hon. Mayor Michael L. Rama spoke about his dreams of a Singapore-like Cebu City, thanking the industry members for their important role in driving the city’s economic growth for the past years, despite the pandemic and typhoon Odette that disrupted the city’s ecosystem during the past two years.

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."

The CIB.O and the Summit Secretariat team express their profound gratitude to their event partners, industry members, key stakeholders, collaborators, attendees, and all individuals who played a crucial role in making this event a resounding success. — (FREEMAN)