Marcos Pushes People-First AI Strategy to Drive Growth in PH, Southeast Asia

Technology | Innovation Posted on 2026-01-10 16:13:04

MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday vowed to harness artificial intelligence (AI) as a key driver of economic growth, committing to build a “harmonized and human-centered AI ecosystem” for the Philippines and the wider Southeast Asian region.

Marcos made the pledge during the launch of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Project Accelerating Governance and Adaptive Pedagogy through Artificial Intelligence (AGAP.AI) at Quezon City Science High School.

“At the national level, we are leveraging AI as an engine for development,” Marcos said. “We are establishing the Philippine AI Program Framework to future-proof our economy.”

He explained that the national framework prioritizes the development of robust digital infrastructure, including high-performance computing systems, alongside the upskilling of workers and educators to ensure readiness for AI-driven transformation.

“Through sustained investment in AI research and development, we make sure that this technology delivers real benefits while remaining ethical and responsible,” the President said.

As this year’s chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Marcos said the Philippines will advocate for a region-wide, harmonized, and human-centered AI ecosystem focused on five critical sectors: finance, agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and education.

“We are taking the lead in building an innovative environment not only for Filipinos, but also for our ASEAN brothers and sisters,” he said.

Marcos noted that today’s generation is fortunate to live in a time when information and advanced tools are widely accessible. Describing himself as a technology enthusiast, he said AI can help people confront more complex and large-scale challenges.

However, the President emphasized that technology cannot replace essential human values and responsibilities.

“Technology cannot replace discipline. It cannot replace effort. It cannot replace the habit of showing up prepared and ready to learn. It cannot replace hard work,” Marcos said, adding that while AI is a powerful tool, human character remains indispensable.

He said he envisions a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) that is “enabled by technology and powered by Filipinos who choose to learn, to work, and to aspire for a better future for all.”

NPO News Team | PNA-PR

Writer :

Link :