Imagine a government office where workers seamlessly harness artificial intelligence to solve problems, automate repetitive tasks, and provide faster, more efficient services to citizens. Rather than being sidelined by technology, these employees are empowered by it. With AI training, they are equipped to make informed decisions, safeguard data privacy, and ensure responsible AI use.

This future could become a reality under a new proposal aiming to future-proof the Philippine government workforce.

Investing in AI training

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has introduced Senate Bill No. 2930, known as the Artificial Intelligence Training for Government Workforce Act. The bill mandates AI training for key civil servants to ensure the public sector keeps pace with the private sector’s growing AI adoption.

“Many companies worldwide have already integrated AI into their operations, while government agencies across the globe are actively working to understand AI and its impact on the public workforce,” Estrada said, highlighting the need for similar initiatives in the Philippines.

If enacted, the Department of Information and Communication Technology will spearhead a nationwide AI training programme. Covering AI fundamentals, applications, ethical considerations, and mitigation strategies for risks like bias and data privacy, the training will be conducted every two years, funded through the national budget. Target participants include government staff in management, planning, research, engineering, testing, procurement, and quality control roles.

“Investing in AI training will not only future-proof the workforce but also improve services for the public,” Estrada stated.

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The push for greater AI integration

The legislative effort complements the Marcos administration’s national AI agenda. In a recent meeting with the Private Sector Advisory Council, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. discussed leveraging AI to upskill Filipino workers.

PSAC – which collaborates closely with the DICT, the Department of Science and Technology, and the National Economic and Development Authority – supports a consolidated national AI strategy.

Myla Villanueva, PSAC’s digital infrastructure lead and chair of MDI Group Holdings, pointed to the “urgent need to expand bandwidth for students and families in remote areas while keeping pace with AI advancements”.

PSAC is now working with government agencies to enhance connectivity and modernise the country’s digital infrastructure.

Also Read: Future-proofing Filipinos with digital skills

Bridging the digital divide

One key recommendation from PSAC is the accelerated rollout of telecommunications infrastructure in underserved areas. Reliable internet access remains a linchpin for inclusive growth, ensuring Filipinos in remote regions are not left behind in the digital economy.

A flagship initiative in this effort is the “JuanSIM ng Bayan” programme, which plans to provide subsidised SIM cards and internet connectivity to millions of citizens. With a goal of covering 510 sites by the end of the year, the programme will operate under the oversight of the Department of Education, in collaboration with the DOST’s existing rural telecommunications network.

The government said it hopes to enhance digital access and enable equitable participation in AI training and other digital learning initiatives.

Continuous learning for public servants

While the AI training bill is in the legislative pipeline, the Civil Service Commission is already equipping government employees with essential digital/AI skills through various upskilling programmes.

For leaders navigating the complexities of the digital era, the CSC is introducing the “Leadership in the Digital Era” self-paced course, which will run from 26 June to 26 August. The initiative encourages executives to embrace digital leadership and foster organisational transformation.

In addition to sharpening leaders’ digital acumen, the upcoming “AI in the Workplace” course on 14 June will also offer agency heads and HR officials practical knowledge on integrating AI into their operations.

A future-ready government workforce

The proposed AI training act, combined with ongoing upskilling efforts, signals a clear intent to prepare the Philippine workforce for the future. Rather than treating AI as a looming threat, the government is embracing it as a transformative tool.

With strategic investments in connectivity, training, and leadership development, the Philippines is positioning itself to thrive in an AI-powered world.

For civil servants, this entails adapting to technological change as well as leading the charge in delivering smarter, more efficient public services. In the race towards AI adoption, the nation is ensuring its workforce is not just keeping up but staying ahead.