Wiring up the nation: Story of how Victor Genuino is betting big on the cloud

For seasoned executive Victor Genuino, the Philippines is poised to become a major powerhouse for data centers-a go-to destination for tech companies driving the next wave of digital progress. It's a bold vision, and one he is already executing as head of VITRO Inc.

- BY DEXTER BARRO II

"My dream is for the Philippine data center industry to compete with the likes of Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand," Genuino told the Manila Bulletin, describing his long-term vision for an industry still in its infancy.

Genuino is the president and chief executive officer of VITRO, the data center arm of telecommunications giant PLDT Inc. He has built a career on turning lofty ambitions into reality, with extensive experience in leadership roles in the Philippines and abroad, including positions at Philips Electronics and Siemens Mobile.

His expertise in business fundamentals, communications, and product development led him to serve as general manager for Hong Kong at PLDT's international arm, PLDT Global.

There, Genuino spearheaded the launch of the telco's first mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) arrangement in the early 2000s, a move that enabled Filipinos working in Hong Kong to call and text relatives back home-a capability that was revolutionary at the time.

As the digital world unfolded in the 2010s, Genuino shifted to another Pangilinan-led firm, Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), following a personal invitation from then-PLDT Global chief AI Panlilio. Genuino spent a decade at Meralco, focusing on ensuring consistent reliability for all consumers.

He later returned to the telco giant's fold at Panlilio's request, a move that eventually led to his appointment as President and CEO of ePLDT Inc., VITRO's parent company.

Honed by decades of experience, the executive took charge of optimizing ePLDT's operations by phasing out sunset services and prioritizing growth drivers.