Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace Barbers believes that the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be reaped by the Philippines in a systematic and regulated manner. That's the reason why Barbers filed House Bill (HB) No.7396 seeking the creation of a “superbody” that would be responsible for the development and implementation of the AI technological phenomena in the country. "While the Philippines recognizes the importance of AI in the development of the country, the rapid phase of technological advancement in AI also poses risks and challenges that must be addressed to ensure that its benefits are maximized, and its negative impacts are minimized, if not avoided,” he said. The bill, titled, “An Act Promoting the Development and Regulation of AI in the Philippines”, bats for a comprehensive framework for the development and regulation of AI in the country. It seeks to establish an agency to be known as the Artificial Intelligence Development Authority (AIDA) which would undertake the tasks, duties and responsibilities in the development and implementation of a national AI strategy. The AI strategy, Barbers said, will promote AI research and development, support the growth of AI-related industries, and enhance the skills of the Filipino workforce in the AI field. “AI is rapidly transforming the global economy, with its potential to enhance productivity, improve delivery of basic services, and drive economic growth,” said the Mindanaoan, who chairs the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs. He said there should be an agency that would act as a “watchdog” to guard against unscrupulous individuals that would take advantage of or use it for their selfish or criminal ends. "Sa paglabas ng bagong technolohiya na AI, tiyak din na may mga tao na gagamitin ito sa kasamaan (The release of new AI-based technologies will surely entice some people to use it for evil ends) ” Barbers said. The proposed legislation defines AI as an umbrella term that encompasses various forms of technology, including machine learning, deep learning, neural works, and natural language processing. “It outlines the principles of responsible AI usage and development which include transparency, fairness, accountability, and privacy. It likewise requires organizations that develop or deploy AI technologies to adhere to these principles and to conduct risk assessments and impact analyses before deploying their technologies,” he said. Moreover, Barbers said, the bill includes provisions to protect the privacy and personal data of individuals to prevent discrimination and bias in AI technologies, ensure that AI systems are safe and secure, for organizations to be transparent about their use of AI, and provide meaningful explanations for the decisions made by AI systems.