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TALENT
If there is a single reason for the Philippines phenomenal rise among North American companies in the offshoring of business
processes, it is the abundance of available talent that possesses English skills, advanced education, and an understanding of
American culture.
The affinity with U.S. culture is due to their common history for the fifty years following the Spanish/American War. During this
period many of the governmental institutions were established that would last after Philippines’ independence. Much of the structure
of everyday life is a weave of Filipino tradition with American values and history.
The cultural overlap manifests in the following ways:
Off Shore Workers
There are over 3 million Filipinos currently reside in the United States either as immigrants or as Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW). They
provide an ongoing connection to American culture.
Entertainment
The profound penetration of U.S. media and mass consumer culture in the Philippines is evident in popular local TV reality shows
such as "Philippine Idol," Hollywood movies, and the American business presence.
Sports
American influence is seen in the country’s popular recreational sports. These include boxing, billiards, basketball, chess, bowling
and soccer. Virtually every Barangay in the country has at least one billiard table and basketball court.
Music
Americans introduced the blues, folk, R&B and rock and roll all of which are now the most popular music genres in the country. As a
result, much original Pilipino music ("OPM") is suggestive of earlier American popular music, which has led to certain
popularity among North American audiences.
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