India’s iSON pledges $75M for PH agri, health, BPO

Agricultural technology and healthcare access are at the center of a US$75-million investment commitment by India’s iSON Group, as the company looks to expand its Philippine operations in sectors aligned with the government’s food security and digitalization priorities.

The commitment was among the expansion pledges secured by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during meetings with Indian business groups in New Delhi on Saturday on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a news release.

The discussions underscore the growing economic engagement between the Philippines and India, the world’s largest democracy, as both countries explore opportunities beyond traditional trade and investment.

Trade and Industry Secretary Maria Cristina Roque said iSON Group discussed expansion in agricultural technology, healthcare, BPO, and digital infrastructure.

“They want to improve technology in the agriculture sector. Agriculture and food security are among the main priorities of the President, so any advancement in agricultural technology is important to the country and definitely to the President,” she said.

The company’s proposed investments include a US$50-million agro-solar project, healthcare and 24/7 teleconsultation services, and a US$10-million expansion in BPO and global delivery centers. Overall, the investment package is expected to generate around 2,000 jobs.

The proposed teleconsultation service could also widen access to doctors, particularly in geographically isolated communities.

“We are a country of 7,600 islands, so sometimes it is difficult to consult a doctor, especially when the nearest facility is in another town. Through teleconsultation, Filipinos can consult doctors online,” Roque said.

The service is projected to cost around ₱65 per month, allowing patients to consult doctors online at any time, subject to iSON’s final implementation plans.

“This is very helpful for us, especially in areas where access to doctors and healthcare facilities remains limited,” Roque said.

iSON Group, which has more than 25,000 employees and operates in around 35 countries, has already established a significant Philippine presence.

Its digital infrastructure arm, iSON Tower Ltd. Inc., has operated in the country since 2021 under the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s Common Tower Policy. It has deployed around US$65 million to build 450 telecommunications towers serving approximately 600 tenants across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

The latest commitments point to a broader role for Indian investment in helping address Philippine priorities in food production, healthcare access, digital connectivity and employment.