The IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) is calling for proactive measures to equip the counrty’s workforce with the skills needed to navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence (AI).
In a statement, Jack Madrid, IBPAP president and chief executive officer, raised the need to shift the narrative around AI from one of potential job displacement to one of enhanced productivity and industry growth.
“AI is not a distant challenge; it is a present reality reshaping industries and economies globally,” Madrid said.
“The IT-BPM sector has shown that early adoption of AI can create opportunities. However, we must not stop there. The Philippines must act decisively to prepare the broader workforce, leveraging our leadership in IT-BPM as a blueprint for other industries, the official added.
The Philippines, currently the world’s second-largest IT-BPM destination, has seen a 67 percent adoption rate of AI technologies among IBPAP member companies.
The early adoption has led to increased productivity and a shift towards higher-value services, showcasing the potential of AI to augment existing jobs and elevate industries. However, IBPAP warned that without a nationwide upskilling effort, other sectors may face job losses due to AI disruption.
To address this challenge, IBPAP is pushing for government funding for AI-focused upskilling programs and the integration of digital and AI-related skills into the national education curriculum.
The organization has partnered with the Department of Education (DepEd) and TESDA to develop competency-based training initiatives in data analytics, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
Additionally, IBPAP has launched the Philippine Skills Framework for Contact Center and Business Process Management, with a goal of upskilling 1 million workers by 2028.
The organization is also providing industry leaders with resources to ensure responsible AI adoption and ethical workforce transition strategies.
IBPAP said it remains committed to building a future-ready workforce and urges collaboration between the government, private sector, and academia.
By taking proactive steps, the Philippines can maintain its global IT-BPM leadership while promoting inclusive economic growth, it added.