MANILA, Philippines — Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to protect workers, create quality jobs, and prepare Filipinos for the future of work, Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino said the Philippines will push for a human-centered approach to artificial intelligence.
In his virtual address before the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, Secretary Tolentino said AI is already changing the world of work and must be managed in a way that protects jobs, rights, and human dignity.
“AI must complement human labor, not replace human dignity and judgment,” Secretary Tolentino said.
The Labor Chief said AI can improve productivity, public service, innovation, and growth. However, he warned that unmanaged AI adoption may disrupt labor markets, displace workers, weaken labor rights, and affect workers’ welfare.
“Technology must move the country forward, but it must never leave workers behind,” he added.
Secretary Tolentino said the Philippine government is already taking steps to prepare workers and enterprises for digital transformation. He cited the Telecommuting Act, which protects workers under work-from-home arrangements, and the Enterprise-Based Education and Training Act, which strengthens technical-vocational education and training. He also highlighted the Philippine Skills Framework for Analytics and AI, which identifies the skills and competencies needed for AI-related jobs.
According to Secretary Tolentino, the AI transition must be fair and inclusive, especially for older workers, young entrants to the labor market, women, and workers in vulnerable forms of employment.
To support this, DOLE continues to promote lifelong learning, digital skills training, and gender-responsive policies. The Department is also using digital tools to improve services, including AI-powered job matching, PhilJobNet through the E-Gov app, and 24/7 chatbots that provide accessible information on wages, productivity training, and technical services.
By the end of 2025, PhilJobNet had 2.5 million registered jobseekers and 39,336 employers.
Secretary Tolentino said the Philippines will continue working with the International Labour Organization and tripartite partners to ensure that AI supports innovation while protecting workers.
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