Manila has had a head start in the outsourcing industry compared to other parts of the Philippines. Mostly because of the infrastructure that was already in place. But now there are advantages that make Cebu the ideal place for all types of BPO’s (Business Process Outsourcing) and call center work. A highly educated workforce and great English abilities makes Cebu the best place for outsourcing.

IT dedicated zone

Local Cebu government has made it easier for foreign investors by reserving land specifically for IT services. The telecommunications infrastructure is now stable and with the majority of buildings newer in Cebu vs Manila. Tax holidays for IT services through P.E.Z.A registered companies allow companies to keep more of their revenue to scale larger and pass saving to their clients for several years. Realty Firms have also invested into these IT zoned areas to build quickly and coordinate the necessary infrastructure for large multinational companies to move operations to Cebu.

Natural protection from Natural disasters

Cebu is surrounded by different islands that act as a buffer from the worst tropical storms. Unlike Luzon, the Island Manila is located in, is located in the “typhoon alley” common in the Southeast Asia. Every year there during typhoon season Manila is affected. Fear of employees’ safety prevents them from arriving working, building damage incur losses in investment, and communications are rendered helpless in the weather.

City life to Island living

Although most call centers are located in Cebu City or neighboring cities, you don’t get the over population, traffic and pollution that exist in Manila. If you are stressed with the daily grind of work, you can always take a quick drive to a nearby beach and relax for the day or go to nearby island resorts like Bohol or world famous Boracay. If the weather doesn’t permit, you can always go to upscale shopping centers like Ayala or SM Cebu City and catch an IMAX movie.

Experts agree Cebu is the place to be

Although Manila might have been first, Cebu is becoming a city where the rest of the world wants to be for outsourcing services. Don’t take our word for it. According to the latest research conducted by Tholons, (they rank global cities on how well suited they are for IT and BPO services), Cebu City was ranked FIRST in a list of Top 50 Emerging Outsourcing Cities in the world which included cities like Buenos Aires, Beijing, Shanghai and Sao Paulo.

Cebu Skyline