I recently sat down with Bea Quitiquit, Senior Associate Manager at Ayala Land International Sales Inc., to explore why the Philippines has become a go-to destination for entrepreneurs wanting to live and operate in Southeast Asia—and the insights were eye-opening. The last time I was in Manila was nearly 8 years ago, and even back then, I saw some of the trends quietly taking shape in my parents' birthplace. I didn’t fully imagine how much opportunity would emerge as the world has grown more borderless. The distance between shores narrows thanks to our increasing reliance on technology.
📰 Key Highlights
1️⃣ English-speaking, tech-savvy talent: The Philippines has world-class engineers and tech teams with strong English proficiency.
2️⃣ Business-friendly environment: Flexible labor laws, tax incentives, and economic zones give business owners an operational edge.
3️⃣ Affordable, high-quality living: Competitive real estate prices and a favorable cost of living make it attractive for expats and founders.
🚀 Why the Philippines Makes Sense for Business Owners
Bea and I discussed how the Philippines stands out in Southeast Asia thanks to its blend of talent, regulatory advantages, and cost efficiency. It’s no longer just a BPO hub—it’s maturing into a destination for tech startups, regional HQs, and founders who want a comfortable base in Asia.
Here’s why:
Talent Advantage: The Philippines produces highly skilled engineers and developers, many of whom have experience working with global firms. And the bonus? They speak fluent English, which simplifies everything from hiring to scaling customer support.
Labor and Tax Perks: Companies operating in the Philippines benefit from PEZA incentives (think tax breaks and fast-tracked import/export procedures) and labor laws that allow for operational flexibility. For business owners, this means faster growth with fewer HR headaches.
Western-aligned Business Culture: The Philippines has a unique cultural overlap with the West, meaning founders can expect smoother negotiations, clearer communication, and less cultural friction.
Ayala boasts 53 master-planned estates across the Philippine archipelago, establishing itself as one of Southeast Asia’s most prominent and influential residential land developers. While Metro Manila remains a flagship market, expansion into other major cities remains a strategic priority, as the company taps into the rising demand in emerging urban centers nationwide.
Real Estate and Lifestyle Value
Bea shared valuable insights on where the real estate market stands today and why it’s a timely opportunity for foreign buyers and business owners:
"We're just beginning our recovery phase in the real estate sector, with one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia… The Philippines is evolving, and infrastructure projects are unlocking high-growth corridors. More than ever, it’s important to trust reputable developers to protect and deliver on your investments."
Takeaway:
For founders looking to expand operations while maintaining a high quality of life, the Philippines isn’t just an alternative—it’s becoming a premium first choice in Southeast Asia.
📊 Quick Stats/Charts
95% English Proficiency Rate: The Philippines is one of the top English-speaking countries in Asia, according to EF English Proficiency Index.
6-7% Annual GDP Growth Pre-Pandemic: The Philippine economy was one of the fastest-growing in the region and is regaining momentum.
🌐 Links & Resources
Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA): Learn about tax incentives and business perks in SEZs.
Ayala Land Commercial: Explore Ayala’s real estate portfolio for residential and commercial spaces.
💬 Final Thoughts
The Philippines offers the perfect storm of affordability, talent, and lifestyle for business owners looking to make Southeast Asia their home base. Would you consider launching or relocating your business here? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
xoxo,
Maximillian Diez
GP, Twenty Five Ventures
P.S. Stay with me on this journey.
If nothing else, thanks for reading.
