The Philippines is set to strengthen its digital and economic future as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the launch of a national artificial intelligence (AI) program aimed at boosting growth and creating a human-centered AI ecosystem across Southeast Asia.
Speaking at the unveiling of the Department of Education’s Project Accelerating Governance and Adaptive Pedagogy through Artificial Intelligence (AGAP.AI) at Quezon City Science High School, Marcos emphasized the role of AI in national development.
"At the national level, we are leveraging AI as an engine for development. We are establishing the Philippine AI Program Framework for the future-proofing of our economy," Marcos said.
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Building a Robust AI Infrastructure
The president explained that the program will focus on establishing advanced computing systems and extensive upskilling initiatives for workers and educators.
"Through investment in AI research and development, we ensure that this technology delivers real benefits while remaining ethical and responsible," he added, highlighting the importance of balancing innovation with accountability.
With the Philippines holding the ASEAN chairmanship this year, Marcos also underscored plans to develop a harmonized AI ecosystem across the region, concentrating on five strategic sectors: finance, agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and education.
"Indeed, we are taking the lead in building an innovative environment for Filipinos, as well as for our ASEAN brothers and sisters," the president said.
AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement
Marcos, a self-professed technology enthusiast, stressed that while AI offers tools to tackle complex challenges, it cannot replace essential human qualities.
"You have in your hands an extraordinarily powerful tool. But you must use it to help you think and support your learning. It should never replace your drive, your creativity, and your grit to learn about our world," he noted.
To complement the initiative, the government, in partnership with the ASEAN Foundation and Google.org, will roll out national AI skills training programs, reaching 1.5 million Filipinos, including learners, teachers, and parents. Topics will include responsible AI use, misinformation detection, privacy, and digital literacy. The Office of the President also donated two Starlink satellite internet units and one Smartboard interactive touchscreen to Quezon City Science High School.
Preparing a Future-Ready Generation
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said AGAP.AI aligns with the Bagong Pilipinas agenda and the Quality Basic Education Development Plan (QBEDP).
"So we can strengthen teaching, improve governance, and bring better results to the entire education system that is for humans, for teachers, and for children. This is how we build a future-ready Philippines and a future-ready ASEAN," Angara explained.
Students and educators praised the program for its potential to enhance learning. Senior high student Brianna Untal shared that the initiative would support her engineering specialization.
"It is a huge step toward machine learning and other programming methods," she said, while her teacher Milanie Cayanan added, "It can give us more strategies, like gamification, when it comes to our lessons. Because this also entertains the students, it would be more interactive."
By embedding AI into education, workforce training, and key industries, the Marcos administration aims to position the Philippines as a competitive player in Southeast Asia’s tech landscape. The program opens access to digital skills, improves learning experiences, and equips future workers for a rapidly evolving economy.
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