Philippine businesses are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud-based systems faster as companies look for ways to improve operations, reduce manual work, and respond more quickly to market changes.
At Oracle’s SuiteConnect event in Manila, executives said businesses are investing more in connected digital systems to help manage surging costs, supply chain disruptions, expansion plans, and growing customer demands.
According to Amit Suxena, group VP and head of Asia at Oracle, companies in the Philippines are now moving beyond simply testing AI tools and are starting to use them in everyday business operations.
“AI is moving from experimentation to actual execution,” Suxena said. “Leaders are focusing on where AI can deliver real results.”
Suxena said businesses are using AI to automate repetitive tasks, process large amounts of data faster, and help managers make better decisions across finance, operations, and supply chains.
He said the Philippines is in a strong position to adopt new technologies because of its young workforce and high use of digital tools.
“The Philippines has one of the highest levels of digital adoption globally,” Suxena said. “Companies are able to adapt technology really fast.”
Businesses are also under pressure to provide faster services and smoother digital experiences for both employees and customers. This is pushing organizations to replace outdated systems with platforms that connect different parts of the business in one place.
Suxena said many companies are investing in systems that combine finance, operations, customer information, and supply chain data to improve visibility and speed up decision-making.
Economic uncertainty is also forcing companies to react faster. Suxena cited the impact of surging fuel prices, currency fluctuations, supply chain issues, and extreme weather conditions on businesses across the region.
“Companies are building functions that operate without waiting for certainty to return,” he said.
Businesses that can quickly adjust to market changes are gaining an advantage over competitors still relying on disconnected systems and slower reporting processes, according to Suxena.
Expansion is another major reason companies are increasing technology investments. Many Philippine businesses are looking to grow in regional and international markets, while foreign brands continue entering the local market.
Suxena said expanding into multiple markets creates added challenges for companies, especially in compliance, operations, and financial management.
“Companies that are successful with expansion are the ones building scalable foundations,” he said.
AI remained a major topic during the event, with Oracle promoting its NetSuite platform as a system that can automate processes and help businesses respond to changing conditions in real time.
“It is not just about speed,” he said. “It is about the ability to act.”
He also stressed that companies need organized and connected data to get the full benefits of AI.
“AI is only as good as the data,” Suxena said. “Organizations with connected data are getting the maximum benefit from AI.”
Oracle said businesses that fully integrate AI into their operations are expected to gain a stronger competitive advantage as more companies rely on automation and data-driven decisions to support growth.
