July 06, 2024 - Senator Joel Villanueva is calling for a proactive approach to the future of work, filing Senate Resolution No. 990 to investigate the Philippine government's preparedness for the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the labor market.
"We need a comprehensive plan to ensure our Filipino workers are not left behind," Senator Villanueva said in a statement. "The introduction of AI is inevitable, and we need to equip our workforce with the necessary skills to stay competitive and adaptable."
Senate Resolution No. 990 proposes that an appropriate Senate committee conduct an inquiry "in aid of legislation." This means the committee will gather information and recommendations through hearings and consultations with various stakeholders. These stakeholders could include:
- Government agencies like the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
- Business groups and industry leaders
- AI experts and researchers
- Labor unions and worker organizations
The inquiry is expected to examine several key areas, including:
- The potential impact of AI on job displacement and creation across different sectors.
- The types of skills and qualifications that will be in demand in the AI-powered workplace.
- The effectiveness of current government programs in retraining and upskilling the workforce.
- The need for potential policy interventions to mitigate job losses and ensure a just transition for affected workers.
The Philippines, like many other countries, is facing the challenge of adapting its workforce to the rapid advancements in AI. Studies have shown that AI has the potential to automate many tasks currently performed by humans, potentially displacing millions of workers globally. However, AI is also expected to create new jobs in areas like AI development, data analysis, and cybersecurity.
By proactively preparing its workforce, the Philippines can ensure that it benefits from the opportunities presented by AI while minimizing the negative impacts. The inquiry initiated by Senate Resolution No. 990 is a crucial step in this direction.