Of course, the IT-BPO industry was not an overnight affair. Credit is due to the handful of individuals who saw the potential in the business in its early stages. Among them are the likes of Rainier “Bong” Borja, who is often regarded as the most articulate voice of the Philippine BPO industry; Karen Batungbacal for her early involvement and series of contact center firms; and Secretary Mar Roxas, who, during his tenure as secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, saw the potential of the industry, reached out to key leaders to promote foreign investment, and helped shape the landscape of BPO into what it is today.