Philippines Pushes AI Development Bill, Focusing on Talent and SMEs

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is crafting an artificial intelligence (AI) law that prioritizes the development and adoption of the technology over strict restrictions. The proposed Artificial Intelligence Development and Regulation Act aims to fund computing access for Filipino researchers, promote AI adoption in small businesses and schools, and reserve stringent regulations for high-risk systems impacting loans, jobs, and health. "We studied Brussels, Washington and Beijing, but we are writing a Filipino law, one that works for the farmer, the teacher, and the small business owner in the province," said Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez (3rd District, Negros Occidental), who chairs the technical working group (TWG) under the House Committee on Information and Communications Technology (ICT). Approximately 60 stakeholders from government agencies, regulators, industry, universities, and civil society groups participated in Monday's deliberations at Speaker Nograles Hall. The measure is a priority for the House of Representatives, with 26 House bills, three House resolutions, and one privilege speech referred to the TWG and subsequently consolidated in the draft substitute bill. The panel refined the bill's objectives, broadly agreeing that AI systems should support human autonomy, informed decision-making, and meaningful human oversight. Language ensuring AI enhances rather than degrades human cognition was adopted. Stakeholders also highlighted the need to address AI's environmental impact, bolster national resilience in AI diplomacy amidst volatile global supply chains, and build sovereign AI capabilities for national security. Under the current substitute bill, most AI systems will not require government registration. Registration and safety checks are reserved for high-risk systems. Startups can operate under a government-established regulatory sandbox for supervised development, training, testing, and validation of new AI systems. Furthermore, the bill protects workers affected by AI-driven labor displacement. Crucially, no Filipino can be dismissed by an algorithm alone, and employers must provide 60 days' notice and retraining before any AI-induced displacement. "The goal is a law our innovators can build on, our regulators can enforce, and every Filipino can trust," Benitez stated. Stakeholders have until July 20 to submit proposed amendments through the Committee on ICT Secretariat. The panel will reconvene within the month. (Contributed story)