Microsoft sees potential of Philippines IT firms to become global industry players

MANILA, Philippines - Technology giant Microsoft Corp. is urging Filipino companies to tap on available technologies to accelerate business growth and harness the potential of becoming a global player.

With the looming Asean integration, Microsoft Philippines said businesses investing in technologies such as the cloud could become at par with regional and global competition.

“Technologies like the cloud is a source of competitive advantage for businesses. We see it as the great equalizer that enables optimal performance to keep pace in today’s challenging environment,” Microsoft Philippines general manager Karrie Ilagan said.

Citing findings from a study conducted by research firm IDC, Microsoft said small businesses using cloud computing are 1.7 times more likely to have over 10 percent revenue growth compared to similar sized companies.

In line with its 20th anniversary celebration in the Philippines and its commitment to transform businesses through technology, Microsoft is slated to hold its inaugural Microsoft Big Top Cloud Festival in the country from Sept. 8 to 11.

The week-long event intends to gather top business leaders and technology experts in the country and across the region for information sharing to underscore the role of technologies such as the cloud for professional success.

Ilagan said the event would enable entrepreneurs to look at technology as transformative for their businesses, brands, and customer relationships as it becomes more and more important for competitive advantage.

“Microsoft’s Big Top Cloud Festival provides a venue for business leaders to meet thought leaders and technology experts who help in harnessing the impact of technology not just in their growth but also in elevating the global competitiveness of businesses in the country,” Ilagan said.