The Philippines can expect growing optimism in regard to recruitment and hiring activities this year. Data from the latest study commissioned by Michael Page Philippines found 35% of companies in the country are planning to increase their headcounts, while another 45% will maintain the status quo in 2021.

Coomenting on the findings of Talent Trends 2021 Report, Olly Riches, Managing Director of Michael Page Indonesia & Philippines, says, “While the country’s e-commerce and logistics sectors aren’t as developed as other Asia Pacific markets, the traditional consumer markets have remained robust and are assisting in the economic recovery.”

In view of the economic demands, the sectors earmarked for the highest hiring activity are e-commerce, financial services, healthcare & life sciences, technology & telecommunications as well as fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).

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According to the report, there is a strong demand for technology professionals at all levels where companies have adjusted to the rapidly evolving business landscape, often bringing in external skills sets to accelerate these changes. Separately, we’re seeing an increase in hiring across e-commerce particularly within fintech, logistics and consumer platforms. “Acquiring and retaining high potential talent will be crucial to enable companies to build sustainable operations to position for future growth,” observes Olly Riches.

As a viable option to bridge skill gaps arising from their move to business recovery in 2021, 56% of companies in the Philippines cited their continued investment in employees by upskilling the workforce with training while 56% turned to the use of automation for basic processes.

Filipino professionals have also been empowered with the wealth of information available to them when considering a new job offer. 1 in 3 of the study’s respondents claimed they did extensive research on the company before applying for a job.

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