UK trade software firm opens Asia hub in Philippines

London-based ITRS Group, which was recently acquired by private equity giant Carlyle Group, launched Thursday its software development center in Makati.

The Makati facility is the firm’s only software development center outside London.

ITRS chairman Stephen Bates said during the launch that ITRS had no plan to open any other software development hub and was in fact interested in establishing a global, 24-hour customer support center in the Philippines as well.

Bates also said he would not be surprised if more IT firms based in the UK would locate their centers in the Philippines.

“The Philippines is a good base for growing in Asia. We trust the economy and the government has been supportive. Aside from the excellent English, great talent, and work ethic, there is also a cultural fit and there are economic benefits, too. Not to mention the time difference, which would allow us to keep work going here when the London staff close up for their day.”

UK Trade and Investment director Derek Page told reporters that other British firms are interested in the Philippines, especially in the IT, power and infrastructure sectors. “There is special interest in the public-private partnership projects. We will bring in two trade missions to link British companies with possible partners and locations in the Philippines. There is room for growth in the Philippines and with government reforms we trust there will be more interest.”

ITRS COO Keith Waterton said the development center in the Philippines had started with 20 people and this talent pool would be initially expanded to 45, but more growth was expected moving forward.