Quezon city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has pledged to harness artificial intelligence (AI) to spur economic growth, committing to create a 'harmonized and human-centered AI ecosystem' not just in the Philippines but across Southeast Asia. Marcos made this commitment during the launch of the Department of Education's (DepEd) Project Accelerating Governance and Adaptive Pedagogy through Artificial Intelligence (AGAP.AI) at the Quezon City Science High School.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos outlined the creation of the Philippine AI Program Framework aimed at future-proofing the nation's economy. The framework emphasizes building robust infrastructure, such as high-performance computing systems, and focuses on the upskilling of workers and educators. By investing in AI research and development, the framework aims to ensure that AI technology delivers tangible benefits while maintaining ethical and responsible use.

As the chairperson of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year, Marcos emphasized the Philippines' role in advocating for a harmonized and human-centered AI ecosystem across Southeast Asia, concentrating on five critical sectors: finance, agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and education. He expressed that the initiative aims to foster an innovative environment not only for Filipinos but also for other ASEAN members.

Marcos expressed his enthusiasm for the current generation's access to readily available information and tools, highlighting AI's potential to address complex challenges. However, he also noted that technology cannot replace core human qualities and responsibilities, such as discipline, effort, and hard work. He envisions a "Bagong Pilipinas" (New Philippines) enabled by technology and powered by Filipinos dedicated to learning, working, and aspiring for a better future for all.