Rep. Brian Poe underscored the Philippines’ proactive stance on artificial intelligence (AI) governance and workforce readiness during the “AI in Youth Education as Development Drivers” panel at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting.
Rep. Brian Poe Highlights Philippine Leadership in AI and Workforce Legislation at World Economic Forum
DAVOS, Switzerland — FPJ Panday Bayanihan party-list Rep. Brian Poe underscored the Philippines’ proactive stance on artificial intelligence (AI) governance and workforce readiness during the “AI in Youth Education as Development Drivers” panel at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting.
Speaking before global leaders and policymakers, Poe emphasized a policy-first approach to AI that centers on youth empowerment, ethical governance, and inclusive economic growth. He warned that while AI adoption has rapidly expanded, government preparedness and regulation continue to lag—creating risks of widening inequality and labor displacement if left unaddressed.
“AI disruption is no longer theoretical; it’s already happening in our classrooms and workplaces,” Poe said. “The real question for governments is whether we react too late, or whether we govern early and convert this disruption into long-term economic advantage.”
Citing local data, Poe noted that more than 60 percent of Filipino students already use generative AI tools for academic work, while over 70 percent of educators incorporate AI into teaching materials—often without unified national standards or safeguards in place.
“Access is no longer the main challenge,” he added. “Preparedness, ethics, and economic direction are. That’s where public policy must step in.”
Poe highlighted the Philippines’ decision to legislate early through House Bill 1196, or the proposed Philippine Artificial Intelligence Governance Act. The measure seeks to establish an Artificial Intelligence Development Authority that would lead the country’s national AI strategy, implement risk-based regulation, and ensure transparency, accountability, and human oversight—particularly in high-impact sectors such as education, employment, and public services.
Complementing this initiative is House Bill 2766, or the proposed Career Transition Assistance Act, which aims to address the labor-market effects of AI and automation by supporting workers affected by technological disruption.
“For emerging economies like the Philippines, unmanaged AI can reverse development gains,” Poe said. “But well-governed AI can raise productivity, attract higher-value investment, and expand opportunity—especially if young people are equipped to lead.”
Poe’s participation at the Philippine Pavilion further highlighted the country’s growing role in global AI and digital governance discussions, as the Philippines prepares to assume the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2026.
