Philippine Firms Struggle to Keep Up with AI Talent Demand

Companies in the Philippines are rapidly adopting artificial intelligence (AI), but many are facing a major challenge: finding and keeping workers with the right skills.

A new study by Aon revealed that only 17% of Philippine employers are able to recruit and retain enough AI-skilled talent. This is significantly lower than the global average of 24%, highlighting a growing talent gap as businesses push forward with digital transformation.

Despite this, AI adoption in the country is moving quickly. The report found that 47% of local companies have already fully implemented AI systems, while others are either testing or preparing to deploy the technology. Most organizations are using AI to automate routine tasks, improve efficiency, and drive innovation.

However, workforce readiness has not kept pace. While many companies are investing in upskilling and reskilling programs, the demand for experienced AI professionals continues to outstrip supply.

Employers generally see AI as a tool to enhance—not replace—human work. In fact, 94% believe AI will create new job opportunities, and only a small portion think it will significantly eliminate roles. Still, the lack of skilled workers could limit how much businesses benefit from these technologies.

The study also points to deeper issues in how companies attract talent. Many firms lag behind in offering competitive salaries and benefits, with only a small percentage practicing strong pay transparency or regularly benchmarking compensation. This makes it harder to compete for in-demand AI professionals.

To stay competitive, experts recommend that companies improve compensation strategies, invest more in employee development, and align their workforce planning with long-term digital goals.

As AI continues to reshape industries, the Philippines faces a critical moment: without enough skilled talent, the country risks falling behind—even as it races to adopt the technology.