Telco trailblazers

With a legacy spanning over 145 years as the first telecommunications provider in the Philippines, innovation has always been at the heart of Eastern Communications’ longevity, Co-Coordinator Aileen Regio says.

“Our culture of trust and execution is built on a deep understanding that digital transformation is not just about technology; it’s about empowering people and redefining how we connect, work and grow,” Regio tells The CEO Magazine.

“We don’t just adopt new technologies; we continuously redefine how we deliver connectivity, efficiency and innovation. Our focus has always been achieving ease in everyday life, creating new opportunities and helping organizations secure and futureproof their operations.”

Having achieved an above-industry benchmark Customer Satisfaction Score of 97.55 percent in 2025, it’s clear that the company is already delivering on its promise to ensure service is at the heart of a culture anchored on trust, collaboration and genuine care for customers.

“Ultimately, maintaining a culture of innovation means learning from our rich legacy while staying agile and forward-thinking,” Regio enthuses.

“Innovation begins with curiosity and collaboration. It isn’t limited to technology or infrastructure; it’s a mindset that inspires everyone in our organization to challenge convention, think creatively and find smarter, more human ways to solve problems.”

Pioneering network

Authorized to provide the Philippines’ first telecommunications services in 1878, Eastern Communications has flourished ever since, cementing its reputation as an industry leader. With services including internet, data, voice, managed, cloud and cybersecurity services, it has continually evolved and expanded its offerings to reach an even wider range of customers.

While increasing its digital infrastructure across the Philippines has been an incredibly positive step, the company has also overcome a multitude of challenges, from geopolitical limitations to guaranteeing its technology is sustainable, resilient and futureproof.

“Our focus has been on investing in high-tech, robust and sustainable infrastructure to ensure long-term reliability and scalability,” Co-Coordinator Jaeson Evangelista explains.

“One of the most pressing challenges we face is the risk of network disruptions, particularly from cable cuts and the impacts of the country’s typhoon-prone and archipelagic landscape. To address this, we co-launched the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network Express Route, a joint network infrastructure project designed to enhance network resilience and minimize vulnerabilities.”

“This milestone represents more than just a technical achievement; ultimately, it empowers local economies and supports the country’s digital transformation journey,” Evangelista explains.

“The challenge for telco companies when scaling is that connectivity and service are sacrificed, and we’re determined to deliver the same reliable solution we are known for in these new sites.”

Female leadership

As she approaches a decade working with Eastern Communications, Regio reflects on her journey as a female leader, as well as a certified public accountant and lawyer – and what those different skill sets and perspectives have meant.

“I’ve viewed business decisions through multiple lenses, from regulatory and commercial to high-tech innovations and high-touch human connections,” she says.

“In an industry once defined by traditional norms and male-dominated leadership, I take great pride in being part of a transformative era where diversity and inclusion are no longer aspirations but realities shaping the future of technology.

“My journey into leadership was inspired by a desire to merge strategic, legal and financial acumen to build not just a company, but a legacy of innovation and impact.”

Leading with vision and empathy, and encouraging her employees to be critical thinkers, Regio aims to empower and improve the lives of every person who comes into contact with Eastern Communications.

“This culture enables our people to transform complex challenges into valuable insights and meaningful solutions that drive continuous progress for the company and our customers alike,” she says.

“It’s reflected in how we adapt to our customers’ evolving needs, anticipate shifts in the digital landscape and design services that make a lasting difference in their daily lives and businesses.

“This culture of shared purpose and openness allows us to remain agile, resilient and future-ready, ensuring that progress is always driven by people, for people.”

Customer inspiration

Evangelista, who has an extensive background in network infrastructure and engineering, is also driven by the desire to change the lives of those around him. He says he is endlessly inspired by the Eastern Communications team, whose dedication and innovations guarantee the success of the company and its customers.

“Seeing their satisfaction reminds me of why we do what we do. Because at the heart of every technological advancement, there is a human connection,” he reveals.

“With humility, clarity and making people feel heard and valued, your team will always rise to the challenge and drive the organization forward with purpose and pride.”

Eastern Communications is unafraid of change or unforeseen challenges, instead fully embracing innovation, technological advancements and whatever the future may hold.

“It starts from within, with the willingness to evolve, learn and challenge the way things have always been done,” Evangelista concludes.

“It’s about building a culture where every employee shares that same mindset of continuous improvement and adaptability.

“When digitalization is guided by purpose, it streamlines operations, empowers people and enables organizations to thrive in an increasingly fast-paced, technology-driven world. Change, after all, isn’t a disruption; it’s the very foundation of progress.”