Telecoms & IT

The telecommunications sector continues to evolve with the emergence of new technologies, fierce competition between existing operators and the entry of new service providers. Mobile services dominate the telecoms sector. The mobile penetration rate stood at 107% at the end of 2012, though because many people use multiple SIM cards, the actual rate may be closer to 80%. 3G uptake by Filipinos is expected to be moderate in the coming years, with subscriptions forecast to rise to rise by a CAGR of 12.7% between 2012 and 2016. As the IT sector continues to roll out new and updated infrastructure, the expanding services exports segment is likely to see growth. One challenge to this, however, may be securing enough skilled local workers to fill positions. If the government continues to extend incentives to new firms, this is a hurdle that could be overcome. This should leave the industry in a good position to see increasing internet uptake, growing exports and a rising number of jobs for locals. This chapter contains interviews with Manuel V Pangilinan, Chairman, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT); and Gamaliel Asis Cordoba, Commissioner, National Telecommunications Commission.