The Philippines Gets Ready to Lead ASEAN in 2026
The Philippines will take over as ASEAN’s chair in 2026 with the stated goal of encouraging responsible technology innovation. The main goal is to improve artificial intelligence for the benefit of people and fair growth.
Officials said that the leaders of Manila would talk about how AI might help improve collaboration in the area and create a safe, innovative Southeast Asian society.
Championing Ethical and Sustainable AI Applications
Dominic Xavier Imperial, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Foreign Affairs, stressed that the Philippines wants to make sure that AI is safe and equitable for all ASEAN residents. The chairship still follows the notion of ethical usage.
He stressed that the country will support frameworks that encourage openness, responsibility, and long-term use of AI systems in both the public and private sectors.
Innovation as a Tool for Regional Prosperity
The Philippines sees new technologies like AI as tools for making economies more competitive and inclusive. One of the main goals of its ASEAN leadership will be to modernize the economy.
Officials said that Southeast Asian countries can boost digital commerce, productivity, and the strength of micro, small, and medium businesses by using AI.
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Alignment With APEC’s AI Initiative 2026–2030
ASEAN leaders, including those from the Philippines, backed the APEC AI Initiative 2026–2030 during the recent APEC Summit in South Korea. This roadmap shows the regional aims for developing AI in an ethical way.
The deal includes promises to improve research cooperation, support open data ecosystems, and make the workforce more ready through education and training.
President Marcos Highlights AI’s Transformative Role
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has said several times how important AI is for contemporary government and societal progress. He thinks it will help economies work better and include more people.
The president said that AI-powered technologies may make public services better, make commerce between countries easier, and give communities more power by giving them greater access to new ideas.
Strengthening ASEAN’s Digital Integration Goals
As the next chair of ASEAN, the Philippines will combine AI tactics with larger efforts to change the way people use technology. This is in line with the bloc’s Digital Masterplan 2025 and its aspirations for long-term growth.
The goal of the effort is to bring AI standards into line across member nations while building confidence and collaboration between businesses, governments, and individuals.
Building a People-Centered Technological Future
Imperial said again that technology should help people, not take their place. The Philippines wants ASEAN to be ready for the future, where new ideas can bring about peace, wealth, and inclusion.
The government wants to set an example for sustainable digital advancement across Southeast Asia by encouraging ethical AI and working together with other countries in the area.
