Collaboration between nations has become essential to drive innovation and meet the demands of an evolving global economy. Astro Robotics, a pioneering technology startup in the Philippines, has embarked on a unique journey with Japanese robotics company Telexistence Inc., to explore the possibilities of remote-controlled robots and harness the potential of the Philippine workforce.
Recognizing the prospective of merging Japanese robotics technology with the dynamic Philippine workforce, the two companies envisioned a collaboration that could redefine the future of work. The driving force behind this endeavor was the desire to overcome traditional barriers such as the need to physically relocate workers across borders.
Astro Robotics was born out of this vision, aiming to build a skilled team in the Philippines capable of remotely controlling robots based in Japan. This revolutionary approach promised to streamline operations, eliminate the need for physical relocation, and open up new avenues for job opportunities and technology exposure in the Philippines.
“We are still in the pilot phase, but from what we're seeing, things are moving quickly both on the Philippines and on the Japanese side. We're (Astro Robotics and Telexistence) both very optimistic that we can scale this and it means we'll be able to offer a lot of technology-related jobs and exposure to the Philippines. Hopefully, we can put the Philippines on the map as an option for these tech jobs,” according to Atty Juan Paolo Villonco, president of Astro Robotics. Villonco holds the distinction of being the first Filipino graduate of Stanford Law School (Master of Laws in 2014). He is also the co-founder and CEO of Ignition, the Philippines’ first venture studio.
Astro Robotics currently employs more than thirty employees in Metro Manila working to control robots in Japan. Their exclusive partnership with Telexistence represents a groundbreaking shift in traditional work setups, particularly in the realm of robotics. The innovative approach eliminates the need for Filipinos to relocate to Japan, offering a more efficient and cost-effective solution. The Japanese technology company recently signed a strategic partnership with Foxconn to manufacture robots, setting the stage for Astro Robotics to focus on workforce development and training.
Astro Robotics' Role in the Future of Work
Astro Robotics has positioned itself as a key player in the emerging field of AI robotics, focusing on tasks that go beyond the traditional factory setting. By managing robots remotely in various environments, including convenience stores like FamilyMart in Japan, Astro Robotics highlights the adaptability and learning capabilities of its workforce.
The company sees itself as a catalyst for upskilling the Filipino workforce, moving beyond traditional roles and exploring higher-level tasks in areas like tech support, engineering, and even robotics research. This forward-thinking approach aims to position the Philippines as a hub for technological innovation and a source of talent for global companies.
Despite the promising outlook, challenges persist, such as internet connectivity issues and concerns about the future of certain job sectors. However, Astro Robotics remains optimistic about the potential of the Filipino workforce and their ability to adapt to new technologies.
The Digital Nomad Evolution & the Role of Education
Villonco emphasizes the importance of embracing a global mindset, collaborating with partners worldwide, and evolving the concept of work. The digital nomad culture, once associated primarily with Westerners, is gaining traction among Filipinos, offering new opportunities for collaboration and skill development.
In the rapidly changing landscape of education, the emphasis is shifting from degrees to skills. Astro Robotics actively engages in training its workforce on Virtual Reality (VR) development, Augmented Reality (AR) usage, and other essential skills. Villonco envisions a future where Filipinos can excel globally by adapting to new technologies and embracing diverse collaborations.
Astro Robotics' journey with Telexistence represents a transformative shift in the way we perceive work, collaboration, and the future of technology. By leveraging the strengths of both nations, the collaboration aims to propel the Philippines into a prominent position in the global tech industry.
As the company charts a course for growth and innovation, it not only seeks to redefine the traditional notions of work but also aims to empower the Filipino workforce to realize its full potential in the ever-evolving landscape of technology. Villonco and Astro Robotics stand as a testament to the possibilities that arise when visionary minds come together to reshape the future of work.