Marcos, PSAC Push for AI Upskilling, Job Creation Initiatives

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday led the 5th meeting with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Education and Jobs Sector Group to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening education, workforce development, and job creation in the country. According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the meeting centered on expanding artificial intelligence (AI) upskilling and creating future job opportunities. The rapid advancement of AI technology is considered a crucial element for the development of the Philippine economy, making the cultivation of a skilled workforce essential. President Marcos indicated a policy to revise educational curricula, expand specialized training programs, and generate new employment in AI-related industries through cooperation with PSAC. This is part of a significant strategy for the Philippines to accelerate its transition to a digital economy and enhance its international competitiveness. While overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are a vital pillar of the Philippine economy, increasing high-quality employment opportunities domestically is indispensable for economic stability and improving the quality of life for citizens. Upskilling in the AI sector is expected to contribute to the diversification and sophistication of domestic employment. This initiative holds the potential to offer new career paths for young Filipinos and promote the sustainable growth of the domestic economy. Furthermore, the adoption of AI technology is likely to bolster the competitiveness of sectors where the Philippines has strengths, such as the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry.