How leading Filipino companies are breaking boundaries in HR

In the dynamic and competitive business landscape of the Philippines, HR practices continue to evolve to meet new challenges and leverage new opportunities. Tectonic changes in technology, workforce composition, talent expectations and workplace structures have forced Filipino companies to innovate to stay ahead of the curve. From implementing customised career development programs that aid faster growth to designing holistic employee wellness initiatives, HR leaders in the Philippines are behind some of the most groundbreaking strategies to nurture talent and create sustainable workplaces.

As we gear up to decode these new workplace trends at People Matters TechHR Pulse Philippines ’25 on 14 May 2025 at Marriott Manila, let us look at how leading Filipino companies are setting new benchmarks in HR practices, breaking boundaries and reshaping the future of work.

Reimagining the purpose of L&D

As industries face rapid technological advancements and a rapidly evolving market, companies in the Philippines recognise the need to invest in the continuous development of their employees. Leading firms are not just offering training programmes; they are focusing on creating a culture of learning that fosters both personal and professional growth. This shift is momentous as there is an acknowledgement of the L&D function not as a mere benefit but as a strategic imperative to build the workforce of tomorrow and future-proof the business.

At Security Bank Corporation, for instance, there is a focus on continuous upskilling in an increasingly digital world through comprehensive training programmes, multi-media learning and a blended approach to employee development. In addition to leveraging technology for personalised learning, the company has also empowered employees to take ownership of their professional growth.

Similarly, at BDO Unibank, personalised career development has helped meet employee expectations and aspirations by enabling them to navigate career opportunities for upskilling and cross-functional experiences. Besides increasing engagement and learning, this approach has also helped retain vital talent in the organisation. At Globe Telecom, addressing the digital skills gap has been a top priority as the telecommunications giant has launched several employee upskilling programmes, with a focus on areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital marketing. The company is actively promoting digital literacy for its workforce by leveraging AI in daily business and HR operations, going as far as appointing a dedicated Chief AI Officer to further AI initiatives across the organisation. 

Find out the role of L&D programs in an AI-first world: Sign up for People Matters TechHR Pulse Philippines ’25

Cultivating an inclusive and healthy workplace

Beyond skills development, Filipino companies are also at the forefront of far-reaching employee well-being initiatives with resounding success. In the era of remote workflows and digital fatigue, many organisations are taking creative and unconventional routes to ensure comprehensive employee wellness. Ayala Corporation, for instance, exemplifies this approach with its comprehensive wellness programs. The conglomerate’s wellness initiatives encompass mental health support, flexible work arrangements, fitness subsidies, and on-site wellness centres. By addressing the multifaceted needs of its employees, Ayala is striving to cultivate a supportive and productive work environment that promotes innovation and agility. In an interview with People Matters, then CHRO JP Orbeta also discussed the role of digital tools in enhancing communication and collaboration for a hybrid workplace, highlighting the importance of workplace culture in today’s world. 

On the other hand, there is an equal focus on increasing inclusivity and equity within Filipino organisations. S&R Membership Shopping, for example, has made remarkable progress on gender equality, ensuring equal pay for equal work and promoting women into leadership roles. This focus on gender equality has helped establish the company as a progressive employer, fostering a more equitable and inclusive workplace and attracting a more diverse talent pool. These renewed workplace values are also evident in the company’s HR mission, as Emman Salazar, Vice President and Head of Human Resources at S&R Membership Shopping, shared in an interview with People Matters that the days of HR fighting for a seat at the business table are over and HR is ready to lead organisational change from the frontlines. 

Learn how to design inclusive workplaces from industry leaders: Sign up for People Matters TechHR Pulse Philippines ’25

Building holistic employee-centric HR frameworks

In addition to focusing on specific HR functions and operations, many organisations in the Philippines are also making fundamental changes to traditional HR models by encoding an employee-first approach in the company’s DNA. This involves implementing a multi-pronged approach that targets each stage of the employee cycle, from the first recruitment interview to the exit interview. Many organisations that have undertaken such changes have also been recognised for their success and innovation. 

FedEx Philippines, for example, has made significant changes to its culture by refocusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI&O) through various initiatives aimed at empowering underrepresented groups. These efforts include the Empowering Women Scholarship Program (EWSP), which provides scholarships for women pursuing STEM education and inclusive workplace modifications for employees with disabilities. As a result, the company has been repeatedly recognised for its HR excellence and innovation. AIA Philippines has also won accolades for its employee-friendly work culture that includes comprehensive health and wellness benefits, personalised career growth opportunities and advancing sustainable workplace practices.

Decode the next chapter of work and people: Sign up for People Matters TechHR Pulse Philippines ’25

Explore the future of work and HR at People Matters TechHR Pulse Philippines ’25

As Filipino companies reorient HR frameworks to nurture comprehensive employee growth and wellness, it becomes important to stay abreast of the latest trends, best practices and innovations in the industry. And what better way to stay on top of these trends than to immerse yourself in HR masterclasses, workshops, discussions, and solutions? 

Join us for a day full of learning and networking at People Matters TechHR Pulse Philippines ’25 to meet the minds leading this transformation. Learn how to prepare your organisation for the future and find out how HR leaders are solving crucial workforce challenges.

Sign up for People Matters TechHR Pulse Philippines ’25 on 14 May 2025 at Marriott Manila today and make the most of the early bird discounts currently on offer!