Companies seeking to build an engaged workforce must ensure that workplace values are reflected in employees' day-to-day experience through leadership, learning opportunities, and support systems. This is according to an executive of a prominent international company's Global Business Services (GBS) Manila site.
A successful workplace culture is only meaningful when people experience it every day, according to the site lead and accounting operations director. Many young professionals consider continuous learning, a sense of belonging, and opportunities to make an impact as important elements of a meaningful career. Employers face increasing pressure to improve employee retention and engagement as they navigate workforce shifts and technological disruptions.
Low employee engagement rates continue to pose economic costs through lower productivity and weaker organizational performance. A recent report showed that employees considering themselves engaged fell to 20% in 2025 from 21% in 2024. Disengagement also drives declining workplace productivity, with nearly nine in 10 employers in the Philippines reporting this issue.
Employees are experiencing "quiet cracking," a state where workers fulfill their daily duties while feeling internally demotivated or emotionally strained. This issue affects over 38% of Filipino professionals who say they experience it very often. To combat this, companies are investing in colleague development through learning programs, coaching, and leadership support.
Leaders should foster an environment where collaboration develops naturally, rather than relying on employees' personal sacrifices. Clear direction, investing in learning and development, listening to colleagues, and equipping teams with the tools and support they need to do their best work are all essential. Technology should complement, rather than replace, workplace relationships as companies adopt digital tools.
Employees need continuous skills development to adapt to technological changes. While AI can accelerate information analysis and improve efficiency, it cannot replace the qualities that make people indispensable, such as judgment, accountability, empathy, and critical thinking. Filipino workers have shown resilience, curiosity, and a willingness to embrace change, which can help organizations navigate digital transformation.
Maintaining a positive employee experience becomes more challenging as organizations expand, making leadership development and career opportunities increasingly important. Organizations that succeed in attracting and retaining talent will be those that invest in people "as intentionally as they invest in business growth" while creating workplaces where employees can continue learning, pursue meaningful opportunities, and see clear paths for career development.
