BUSINESS

Local tech firm takes AI playbook abroad

Mico Virata · Sep 24, 2026, 2:21 AM

AI co-founder Michael Manago discusses in a tech forum how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of Philippine business. He encourages local technopreneurs not to stay still, challenging them to not just consume AI built elsewhere but to build it themselves here, in the country. — Photograph courtesy of Michael Manago/fb page

Filipino software firm BossLabs AI is taking its locally developed technology model overseas, starting with Malaysia as it seeks to turn solutions built for Filipino businesses into a regional growth engine.

At a media briefing on Wednesday, BossLabs AI co-founder Michael Manago said the company is in talks with potential partners in Southeast Asia to replicate its business model, with Malaysia targeted for its first overseas rollout in October.

Indonesia and Thailand are next on the company’s radar, while a more aggressive regional expansion is planned for next year.

The push would give BossLabs AI access to a much larger customer base outside the Philippines while positioning it to compete in the growing regional enterprise technology market.

Manago said businesses across the region face many of the same technology challenges encountered by local companies, creating room for BossLabs AI to export solutions developed for the domestic market.