The IT & Business Process Association of the Philippines (IBPAP) is calling for proactive measures to prepare the Philippine workforce for the transformative opportunities and challenges brought by artificial intelligence (AI).
While global discussions often highlight potential disruptions, IBPAP noted the importance of recognizing AI’s potential to create jobs, boost productivity, and elevate industries.
“AI is not a distant challenge; it is a present reality reshaping industries and economies globally. 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,” said IBPAP president and chief executive Jack Madrid.
He said the sector showed that early adoption of AI could create opportunities.
As the world’s second-largest IT-BPM destination, the Philippines is projected to generate $38 billion in revenue and employ 1.82 million Filipinos by the end of 2024, by embracing AI.
About 67 percent of surveyed IBPAP member companies already integrated AI technologies into their operations.
The early adoption has enhanced productivity and enabled higher-value services, positioning the IT-BPM industry as a model for managing AI-driven transformation.
Nationwide efforts are needed to upskill the broader workforce and address potential job losses in other sectors, Madrid said.
IBPAP is spearheading initiatives to ensure the workforce is prepared for AI’s impact. The association is advocating for increased government funding for AI-focused upskilling programs and integrating digital and AI-related skills into the national education curriculum.
Recent collaborations with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) laid the groundwork for scalable training programs in critical areas such as data analytics, machine learning and cybersecurity.
IBPAP launched the Philippine Skills Framework for contact center and business process management, aiming to upskill 1 million workers by 2028 while equipping industry leaders with tools for responsible AI adoption and ethical workforce transition strategies.
