The local information technology-business process management (IT-BPM) industry is turning to one of its longtime insiders to lead its largest industry association, with Celeste Ilagan set to become the first woman to head the group.
The Information Technology and Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) on Thursday named Ilagan, its current chief operating officer, as president and chief executive officer (CEO)-designate, succeeding Jack Madrid effective October 11. Ilagan brings nearly three decades of experience in the IT-BPM industry, including four years in IBPAP’s leadership ranks. She joined the association in 2022 as chief policy and regulatory affairs officer and currently serves as chief operating officer.
Before joining IBPAP, she began her career in investment promotion at the Board of Investments. She also served two terms on IBPAP’s Board of Trustees from 2019 to 2022.
Her work at the association has focused on policy and regulatory affairs, legislative advocacy, investor and government engagement, as well as workforce development.
She has been involved in industry efforts related to the CREATE MORE Act, including work on tax matters, ease-of-doing-business initiatives and cybersecurity partnerships.
Ilagan also oversees IBPAP’s talent and workforce agenda, including its work with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Commission on Higher Education and Department of Education on the Enterprise-Based Education and Training framework.
Her appointment comes as the sector continues to adjust to changes in technology, global demand and the composition of outsourced services.
IBPAP now projects the industry to generate $43.3 billion to $50.5 billion in revenues and employ 1.85 million to 2.14 million full-time workers by 2028.
The revised outlook is below the association’s 2022 roadmap, which had targeted $58.9 billion in revenues and 2.5 million workers by 2028, equivalent to an additional 1.1 million jobs.
Madrid will remain president and CEO until October 10. After his IBPAP tenure, he will take on a new role as Philippines ambassador for speech AI company Sanas, which is expanding its presence in the country.