Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant future—it is already transforming workplaces across industries, experts say.
The World Economic Forum’s 2026 white paper, Four Futures for Jobs in the New Economy: AI and Talent in 2030, reports that businesses using AI in at least one function rose from 55 percent in 2022 to 88 percent today. LinkedIn’s September 2025 AI Labor Market Update shows demand for AI literacy skills increased 70 percent from 2024 to 2025, extending beyond tech to marketing, sales, and design roles.
For Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC), a leading online college in the Philippines, staying relevant in the AI era requires curiosity and continual learning. Derrick Latreille, MMDC chief learning officer, said mastering AI is about understanding both its potential and its limitations.
“Anyone can use AI, but not everyone will produce meaningful work. Using AI effectively requires knowledge of its tools, prompt engineering, and critical thinking,” Latreille said.
Soft skills remain essential. Creativity, strategic planning, ethical judgment, and emotional intelligence are still uniquely human traits, Latreille said. Machines cannot replace humans in resolving conflicts, motivating teams, or providing empathetic customer service.
Adapting quickly to new technology is also crucial.
“AI is trained on yesterday’s internet. Emerging trends often require human insight. Reskilling and upskilling are now key to career resilience,” Latreille said.
MMDC integrates AI into its curriculum, offering 24/7 AI support, global content access, and real-world projects. The college’s flexible, fully online programs include Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degrees and short-term certifications in AI, data analytics, digital marketing, and virtual assistance.
MMDC uses a Projects, Problems, and Cases (PPC) learning model that connects students with industry experts to build practical, workplace-ready skills.
“With the right guidance and mindset, anyone can thrive in the AI era. The edge lies in willingness to evolve and stay ahead,” Latreille said.
For more information on MMDC programs, visit www.mmdc.mcl.edu.ph.
