Eastern Communications (EC), established in 1974 in Makati City, Philippines, has evolved from a premier telecommunications provider into a world-class ICT solutions company. Offering a broad range of services including Data, Internet, Voice, Managed Services, Data Center and Cloud Services, and Cyber Security, EC has always placed a strong emphasis on both innovation and personalized customer service through its “High Tech” and “High Touch” approach.
Recognizing that employees are central to their success, EC has invested in a comprehensive welfare program to sustain employee morale, especially during the challenges of the pandemic. Their efforts have led to a steady increase in employee satisfaction, with a rating of 4.25 out of 5.0 in 2021 compared to 4.12 in 2020. Employee retention has also improved significantly, reaching 98.92% as of December 2021, up from 95.31% the previous year.
Employee Engagement and Resilience
Fondly called “Ka-Easterns,” employees at EC are regarded as the company’s most valuable asset, particularly as the telecommunications sector was classified as an essential industry during the pandemic. In response, EC launched #Fearless2021, an internal campaign designed to inspire employees to push forward and thrive despite the difficulties brought by the global crisis.
This campaign focused on holistic employee well-being, targeting skills development, personal health, intellectual and physical growth, emotional resilience, and spirituality. Digital media played a crucial role in engaging employees, with virtual events, social media activities, and wellness programs helping them navigate pandemic fatigue.
To ensure continued professional growth, EC introduced various skills enhancement training sessions, covering topics such as Innovative Thinking Systems, Leading Virtual Teams, Strategic Business Planning, and Project Management Fundamentals. These programs ensured that employees remained productive and well-versed in digital work practices.
Safety and Support for On-Site Employees
With some employees required to work on-site due to the nature of the industry, EC implemented strict health and safety protocols to protect them. Additional wellness measures included Covid-19 health protocols, financial assistance, and virtual wellness activities to support both mental and physical health.
To maintain a strong sense of community, EC organized Virtual Game Nights with cash prizes and Virtual Acoustic Sessions featuring celebrity guests. These initiatives reinforced their commitment to fostering a positive work-life balance, even in challenging times.
Talent Development and Career Growth
EC remains dedicated to talent development and career advancement. Their structured Talent Assessment program identifies employees ready for leadership or critical roles, assessing their readiness and mapping out personalized development programs. These programs address competency gaps and prepare employees for future roles through job postings, mentoring, training, and seminars.
By continuously investing in their workforce, EC strengthens its position as a company that not only delivers innovative solutions but also nurtures and uplifts its employees, ensuring a resilient and future-ready organization.
