Marking 75 years of diplomatic relations, India and the Philippines are strengthening cooperation across business process outsourcing (BPO), technology, defense, and manufacturing to build future-ready industries and deeper regional ties.
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) stated that the two countries are poised to deepen their collaboration in high-growth sectors, driven by global digitalization and heightened security priorities.
BPO, tech, and defense: Strengthening core alliances
FICCI President Mahesh P. Mirpuri said that various defense projects are already underway, signaling a growing strategic cooperation between the two nations.
“We’re already working government to government in the defense sector as well as our BPO, and especially AI seems to be the next play of which India-Philippines is definitely a good way to work together,” Mirpuri told ABS-CBN News.
He emphasized that AI should be seen as an enabler, not a threat—one that creates new roles and helps businesses scale. As global BPO leaders, India and the Philippines can combine India’s IT and analytics expertise with the Philippines’ customer experience strength to lead the next wave of AI-driven outsourcing models.
Industry snapshot: India and the Philippines
| Sector | India | Philippines |
|---|---|---|
| BPO | Strong in IT, software, and back-office engineering | Global leader in voice services, CX, and shared services |
| Technology/AI | Advanced AI, analytics, and R&D capabilities | Rapid AI adoption; large pool of digitally skilled workers |
| Defense | Large defense manufacturing base, growing exports | Expanding modernization efforts; strategic Indo-Pacific partner |
| Manufacturing | Mature industry with cost-efficient production | Developing sector with rising interest in modern machinery |
| Agriculture | Tech-driven farming tools and machinery | Growing demand for mechanization and precision tech |
Manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism poised for expansion
Mirpuri said manufacturing could drive future growth if both countries integrate cost-efficient technologies and modern equipment. “If we can bring down costs in our country, then it will be good for everybody,” he added.
FICCI Honorary Chairman Rex Daryanani said agriculture cooperation will strengthen, as both nations adopt advanced farm machinery to raise productivity and resilience.
He also cited tourism as a key growth pillar, boosted by visa-free entry and new direct flights, which he said will “enhance people-to-people interaction” and create shared economic gains.
Charting the next 75 years of partnership
This year’s milestone also included the Golden Peacock Awards of Excellence, recognizing outstanding humanitarian service in the Philippines. Daryanani noted that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent state visit to India marked “leaps and bounds” of progress in bilateral relations.
As both nations pursue economic self-reliance, officials say India and the Philippines are poised to become key ASEAN and global partners, shaping the future of BPO, technology, and strategic cooperation.
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Mishra, R. (2025, August 12). India-Philippines Ties Now Strategic Partnership on Upward Trajectory. The Diplomat. Retrieved from https://thediplomat.com/2025/08/india-philippines-ties-now-strategic-partnership-on-upward-trajectory/
Macayan, D. (2025, November 24). Philippines, India boost defense, tech ties amid BPO growth. Outsource Accelerator. Retrieved from https://news.outsourceaccelerator.com/philippines-india-tech-ties/
Presidential Communications Office. (2025, August 5). Philippines, India forge Strategic Partnership through landmark agreements. Retrieved from https://pco.gov.ph/news_releases/philippines-india-forge-strategic-partnership-through-landmark-agreements/
