Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the next big thing – you can already see it integrated in every new phone, new PC, new apps that aim to capitalize in this trending technology. Out of science fiction pages and straight to an everyday companion, AI powers our apps, responds to our messages, and can even automate the repetitive tasks we need to do.
But what does this mean for work, life, and opportunities in the Philippines? How can AI help the typical Filipino? Will AI take over our jobs?
Right now, that seems unlikely. In its present capacity, AI is more like an overly enthusiastic intern rather than an expert that can do your job better than you do. It can handle the boring, repetitive stuff so that humans can instead focus on creativity and connection. It’s not about replacing people; it’s about enhancing what they can do.
This isn’t just speculative tech talk; it’s already happening in several industries. AI systems process invoices, manage customer inquiries, and even assist in medical diagnoses. However, someone still needs to nail down the goals, set parameters, and guide these AI systems. Interpreting and checking the AI’s outputs, analyzing and making decisions – these are still tasks that need actual human skills.
Reshaping Industries
AI’s impact can be felt in multiple fields, changing how individuals and corporations do business:
Healthcare - Ada Health and DeepMind can aid doctors by diagnosing illnesses based on symptoms. Wearables like Fitbits monitor your health and provide advice, acting like personal trainers in your pocket.
Education – Tools like Khan Academy adjust lessons according to the student’s pace, offering a customized, tailored experience – just like having a personal tutor. AI can also power proctoring systems that safeguard the integrity of online exams.
Customer Service – For better or worse, AI chatbots are now the frontline system that answers routine queries for corporations, most common of which are banks and utility companies. They might not be as effective as we’d prefer (especially if you’re already irate and in a rush), but they do streamline the process and provide cost efficiencies for the company.
Entertainment – Popular services such as Netflix and Spotify crunch your usage data and then use AI to make suggestions on shows and music that you’ll probably like. If you’re more on the creation side, tools like Runway ML can be a game-changer in creating, editing, and adding effects on videos with professional finesse.
Agriculture – AI powered drones and sensors could help farmers monitor crops, predict harvests, and improve efficiency – a huge technological boon for countries with an agricultural backbone like the Philippines.
Everyday AI
Even if you’re not a tech expert, AI-powered tools can still help the ordinary Filipino looking for extra income. With the right tools, a side hustle is only a few clicks away:
Content Writing – While ChatGPT and its like can write articles, product descriptions, and social media captions for you, you should never really fully rely on them. Creativity is still a uniquely human domain, and there’s no replacing the distillation of the human experience by the act of writing. Instead, use AI tools such as ChatGPT or Grammarly to improve what you have.
Social Media Management – Add extra oomph to your social media posts by creating eye-catching visuals with Microsoft Designer or Canva. Scheduling content with AI-powered platforms like Hootsuite, in turn, can remove the drudgery from the process and make sure you’re devoting time where it’s really important: creativity and authenticity.
Virtual Assistance – There are many companies abroad looking to capitalize on relatively cheap labor from the Philippines. You can enhance your project management and virtual assistance skills by combining tools like Notion AI and Trello to manage client schedules, organize emails, or even handle administrative tasks.
Online Tutoring – Level up your tutoring skills by utilizing AI tools to personalize lessons for each student. Spice up your lessons with Quizlet’s interactive flashcards, quizzes, and games to reinforce concepts. Need presentation materials? PearDeck can design lessons in a snap. It also utilizes differentiated instruction and gamified practice to keep the attention of students.
Whatever your interests and needs, there’s probably an AI tool that can help you out. To thrive in this upcoming AI world, you don’t need to be a tech genius – but you do need to adapt.
Begin by getting familiar with platforms like Google Workspace or AI tools. But that’s just the start – AI can process information, but it can’t make ethical decisions or approach problems creatively. Critical thinking is still your responsibility.
It’s the same with creative thinking; AI can follow your instructions and create a visual for you, but how effective that visual is would largely depend on your own creativity. Last, forming authentic connections with your audience is something no machine can replicate. AI can only take you so far.
Filipinos are particularly well-positioned to harness the powers of AI. We are known for our adaptability, creativity, and strong sense of community. Those traits make us perfect candidates for thriving in an AI-driven world.