The ASEAN Youth Organization Philippines, in partnership with Google.org and led by Code.org, has successfully concluded Hour of Code: AI Ready ASEAN Initiative on Sept. 28, 2025, via Zoom.
This event brought together experts in the artificial intelligence industry, digital innovation, and technological advancement to introduce and discuss with the Filipino youth the importance of AI for today’s workforce.
With artificial technology becoming more mainstream, from chatbots to generative content, there is still a huge debate about its misuse a ethical boundaries, which raises concerns in different industries and job markets.
“Digitalization is not just a tool for progress but a bridge towards a more inclusive and empowered future,” said Catherine Jalandoni of the Global AI Council-Philippines, noting AI may have expanded different opportunities and made tasks easier, but it should still be used responsibly and should be equitable for all sectors.
Nathaniel Samiley, the Deputy Executive Director of the Analytics & AI Association of the Philippines, also pointed out that “AI is not just a technology but a business concept and an integral part of society,” pointing out that the tool’s emergence in today’s workforce is inevitable.
Samiley highlighted that although the threat of AI to certain jobs is valid, this is also a sign of an urgent re-skilling. “There is a need to create an AI-focused workforce development that lays the policy, governance, and ethical framework to prepare the youth for an AI-driven future.”
He also reminded the youth that human-centered skills will remain irreplaceable even in an AI-dominant future.
In the Philippines, various government agencies have been developing the country’s AI policies, including data privacy, data governance framework, capacity-building and infrastructure. However, the country has yet to institutionalize legally binding regulations and laws, causing imbalances and distrust in the use of AI technologies
Dr. Majah-Lea Ravago, the Director and Chief Executive of SEAMEO Innotech, further emphasized that “AI can support progress, but only if guided by people who understand its potential and limits.”
Dr. Ravago mentioned that while the tool can greatly enhance the efficiency of learning and education, it also presents the risk o fostering dependence and overreliance. She underscored the importance of young people taking on the role of critics of the tool and influencing the future of AI in today’s society.
The event concluded with the ASEAN Youth Organization Philippines’ Program Manager and Project Lead, Rosken Casiano, with a call to action.
“AI should not replace but assist people. The use of AI should always be ethical and responsible, and the youth are the vanguard of this technological advancement vanguard of responsible AI use.” Casiano emphasized to the participants that the younger generation holds the key to shaping the future of AI in both the workforce society as a whole.
The Hour of Code: AI Ready ASEAN Initiative is part of the global movement that promotes accessible and engaging computer science education, focusing on preparing the youth for an AI-ready future through interactive activities led by trained master trainers. (PR)
