Ascendion, a global leader in AI-powered software engineering, has announced a major milestone in its decade-long partnership with Philtech, Inc.: the launch of a next-generation Global Capability Center (GCC) in Cebu, Philippines, equipped with cutting-edge Generative AI (GenAI) technologies.
This newly established GCC will support the evolving enterprise operations of Albertsons Companies, enhancing enablement, service delivery, and digital solutions for more than 285,000 employees across 2,200+ locations.
More than a business expansion, the Cebu GCC represents a strategic investment in the Philippines’ digital future, positioning Cebu as a rising hub for AI-driven software engineering, customer experience, and digital transformation.
“Our vision is clear: GCCs must evolve into Generative Global Capability Centers—AI-native, value-generating hubs that drive real business impact,” said Manan Mehta, Senior Vice President for Global Growth Markets at Ascendion. “With GCCAI, we’re not just scaling operations—we’re reimagining the intersection of AI, engineering, and talent to deliver next-level innovation. Together with Philtech, we’re redefining digital operations from the heart of Cebu.”
Powered by Ascendion’s proprietary GCCAI platform (Global Capability Center to the Power of AI), the new Cebu-based center is designed to accelerate delivery velocity, drive intelligent productivity, and provide real-time transparency across key business functions including customer service, application development, quality engineering, operations, and HR.
AI-Driven Tools to Empower Operations
As part of the collaboration, Ascendion is deploying proprietary AI platforms in the Cebu hub:
• Ascendion AVA+ – An AI-first software engineering platform that enhances productivity, manages risk, and reduces time-to-market.
• METal – A talent orchestration platform connecting top Filipino professionals with global projects under Philtech Inc.
“The launch of the Cebu GCC marks a major milestone in our long-standing partnership with Ascendion,” said Trung Nguyen, General Manager of Philtech Inc. and Vice President of Information Technology at Albertsons Companies. “This collaboration will enable us to deliver a seamless fusion of AI automation and human expertise—driving operational excellence and meaningful business value. It’s not just about growth; it’s about shaping the future of AI-powered retail innovation.”
Traditionally seen as cost-efficient back-end hubs, GCCs are now evolving into strategic centers of innovation. Generative Global Capability Centers (G-GCCs) offer a new paradigm—where AI and talent work together to proactively solve challenges, create value, and drive enterprise-scale transformation.
Through this landmark partnership, Ascendion and Philtech are positioning Cebu—and the Philippines—as a key global player in the future of digital operations, innovation, and AI integration.
