JOINING THE ASEAN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE RACE

JOINING THE ASEAN ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE RACE Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global economic and technological landscape at a rapid pace. From powering automation in industries to enhancing decision-making in healthcare, agriculture, finance, and governance, AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it is today’s reality. Recognizing this, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently announced the Philippines’ support for the establishment of an ASEAN AI Center. This move signals the country’s intention to be an active participant in the regional AI race, a strategic development that could define Southeast Asia’s competitiveness in the digital age. Following the President’s declaration, House Speaker Martin Romualdez indicated that the Philippines plans to propose a Southeast Asian regulatory framework for AI, using the country’s draft AI legislation as a foundation. While the President has affirmed a national commitment to AI, the Speaker's statement shows that policymaking is still in its formative stages. Still, hearing the nation’s top leaders talk seriously about AI is a step in the right direction. It marks the beginning of a much-needed national conversation on how the Philippines can harness AI for economic growth and societal benefit. However, optimism must be tempered with realism. The Philippines is playing a significant game of catch-up. While we are only beginning to outline strategies and regulatory frameworks, other ASEAN countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam have already launched national AI roadmaps, invested in AI education and research, and created innovation hubs. Singapore, for instance, unveiled its National AI Strategy as early as 2019 and has since implemented AI in urban solutions, logistics, and government services. Vietnam launched its own AI strategy with a goal of becoming a regional AI leader by 2030. By comparison, the Philippines has not yet fully integrated AI into its national development plans. Although there have been some efforts by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and by some academic institutions, these are limited in scale and largely disconnected from a cohesive national policy. To truly join the ASEAN AI race, the country must act quickly and decisively. First, we need to invest in digital infrastructure and education. AI requires robust data centers, computing power, and a workforce skilled in data science, machine learning, and ethics. Our universities must align curricula with emerging technologies, and public-private partnerships should be encouraged to accelerate innovation. Second, a national AI policy must be finalized, harmonized with ASEAN-wide efforts, and designed to protect data privacy, ensure ethical AI development, and prevent technological misuse. The proposed regional regulatory framework mentioned by Speaker Romualdez is a welcome idea, especially in a region as diverse as ASEAN, where coordination can avoid regulatory fragmentation. Lastly, the private sector must be engaged actively. Startups, corporations, and research institutions should be incentivized to explore AI applications across industries, creating a dynamic innovation ecosystem. In conclusion, joining the ASEAN AI race is both a challenge and an opportunity for the Philippines. We are starting late, but we are not out of the race. With strong leadership, sound policy, and committed investment in talent and technology, the country can still become a meaningful player in Southeast Asia’s AI-driven future. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 07-01-2025