President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and top Cabinet officials met with executives from India’s Tata Group to discuss potential investments in the information technology (IT), aviation, and hospitality sectors, which are deemed crucial for the Philippines’ digital transformation and tourism growth.
The expanded partnership with Tata Group, a global conglomerate, is projected to create thousands of new jobs and improve regional connectivity.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), the group’s flagship IT arm, announced plans to expand its presence in the Philippines over the next three years, with a focus on Metro Manila and other key areas. Leveraging its experience from leading the 4G and 5G rollout for a major telecom company in India, TCS is set to bring its expertise to the country.
To strengthen national digital sovereignty, promote financial inclusion, and build a “clean network,” TCS is also partnering with NOW Corporation. A signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) outlines TCS’s support for NOW Corporation’s capabilities in expanding trusted networks, providing sovereign cloud technology, and offering a robust cyber-defense suite. The partnership also aims to create citizen-centric services.
TCS currently employs over 6,000 Filipinos in high-value IT and business process services, supporting top Philippine corporations and global clients.
In a significant boost to bilateral relations, Air India, another Tata Group company, will launch a five-times-weekly direct flight between Delhi and Manila starting October 1. This new route is expected to deepen trade, tourism, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Additionally, the meeting included discussions on Tata’s hospitality arm, Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), which is exploring potential ventures in Metro Manila and other tourism destinations. These initiatives are expected to support the country’s goal of becoming a high-value destination for hospitality and sustainable tourism.
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque said Tata Group’s continued interest strongly aligns with the administration’s “Bagong Pilipinas” vision.
“Tata Group’s decision to deepen its presence here is a strong vote of confidence in the ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ vision. With TCS driving our digital future and Air India creating new economic bridges, these investments are a clear sign that the Philippines is on the right path toward inclusive and innovation-driven growth,” said Secretary Roque.
DTI highlighted available incentives under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan (SIPP), including income tax holidays and enhanced deductions for projects in IT, aviation, and tourism. These are designed to reduce the cost of doing business and encourage long-term, responsible investments.