Shock Closure Hits Filipino Workers
J.P. Morgan has quietly begun winding down its global analytics unit, leaving around 250 employees in Manila, Cebu, and Baguio affected. The closure comes as part of an internal review that deemed this smaller business arm non-core. Despite the setback, the Philippines continues to be a major hub for the bank, employing tens of thousands in other divisions.
Small Numbers, Huge Implications
Though 250 jobs may seem minor compared to J.P. Morgan’s total Philippine workforce, the move sends a clear signal. Global corporations are consolidating analytics and back-office operations, tightening service portfolios, and increasingly replacing mid-level reporting roles with automation. If a major bank can close an analytics unit, smaller firms are even more vulnerable.
Analytics and KPO Roles on the Line
The closure highlights the growing vulnerability of analytics and knowledge process outsourcing roles. Units that rely on manual analysis or repetitive data tasks are often the first to be cut, and automation is rapidly taking over tasks such as data sorting, report generation, and preliminary analysis.
Upskill or Risk Being Left Behind
Filipino workers are now being urged to move up the value chain. Future-ready roles include data science, AI-augmented analytics, risk management, compliance, cybersecurity, technical finance, and other advanced IT-BPM functions. Government and industry-led reskilling programs are crucial to help displaced workers adapt and remain competitive.
The End of “Safe” Outsourcing Jobs
J.P. Morgan isn’t leaving the Philippines, but the shutdown underscores a hard truth: traditional outsourcing models no longer guarantee job security. Companies will continue trimming, merging, or automating roles, making workforce future-proofing the only reliable defense against global restructuring.
