Government to employ AI to upskill workers – PSAC

MANILA, Philippines — The Marcos administration is planning to employ artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the skills of Filipino workers and prepare them for technology-driven changes.

Upgrading workers’ capabilities using AI was one of the topics tackled during President Marcos’ meeting with digital infrastructure advocates from the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) last Friday at Malacañang.

PSAC said it shares the view of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) on key AI-related priorities, including investing in AI infrastructure, fostering innovation and ensuring that workers are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-powered economy.

“PSAC also welcomed the administration’s directive to formulate a consolidated national approach to artificial intelligence development and workforce upskilling,” the council said in a statement.

PSAC digital infrastructure lead and MDI Group Holdings Inc. chair Myla Villanueva said Marcos’ direct engagement in refining policies into practical solutions emphasized the urgent need to expand bandwidth for students and families in remote areas while keeping pace with AI advancements.

“PSAC digital looks forward to working with DICT Secretary Ivan Uy, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum and NEDA chief Secretary Arsi Balisacan to develop national strategies and upskill the workforce while ensuring a balanced approach to innovation, safety, and public trust,” she added.

The group said it is working with state agencies to roll out additional connectivity solutions and to reinforce the nation’s digital backbone.

At the same meeting, PSAC recommended the accelerated deployment of telecommunications infrastructure in underserved and far-flung communities to modernize the Philippines’ digital landscape and promote inclusive growth. It cited the need for strategic investments in connectivity to bridge the digital divide and ensure that every Filipino has access to reliable communication services.

“Central to this effort is the JuanSIM ng Bayan program, a strategic initiative designed to provide subsidized SIM cards and internet access to millions of Filipinos, particularly those in remote areas,” the council said.

The program seeks to cover 510 sites by the end of year, with the Department of Education overseeing SIM distribution. The agency has been tasked to directly coordinate with beneficiary schools and to send technical personnel for proper implementation.

The DOST’s existing rural telecommunications system will support the JuanSIM program by leveraging existing internet connections to boost connectivity in remote areas.

DPWH computer emergency response

At the Department of Public Works and Highways, the DPWH has formed its own computer emergency response team (CERT) that will lead the cybersecurity protection of the department’s digital assets.

In an order issued last Feb. 13, Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan ordered the creation of the DPWH Government Computer Emergency Response Team (GCERT) to be headed by its Information Management Service director Rhalf Cawaling.

Bonoan noted that the DICT had reminded the DPWH of their duty to ensure the cybersecurity protection of government digital assets that was mandated by the National Cybersecurity Plan 023-2028 implemented when President Marcos issued Executive Order No. 58 on April 4 last year.

The GCERT will take charge of the DPWH’s capacity to respond to cybersecurity incidents and threats.

Cawaling, as GCERT leader, was tasked to develop and maintain the agency’s Information Systems Strategic Plan, ensure compliance to prescribed cybersecurity standards, build up the information security capability, and ensure the DPWH’s reportorial duties. — Rainier Allan Ronda