Dec 27, 2024
Over the years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has proven its own opportunities in business development.
However, it is also worth noting that it poses potential threats, particularly in the lens of data privacy, such as data exploitation where personal data collected by AI systems can be used for targeted advertising, sold to third parties, or even misused for malicious purposes, and bias and discrimination, where AI systems can inherit biases present in the data they are trained on, leading to discriminatory outcomes.
As a result, the Philippines has been making efforts to gear the nation towards AI development. In fact, the country is among the first 50 nations to launch a National AI Strategy, reflecting its commitment to embracing AI technology to incorporate recent technological advancements and address emerging themes such as ethics and governance. With this, the need for a regulating body shall be on the rise to ensure responsible AI usage and development which adheres to the principles of data protection.
In March 2023, House Bill 7396 was filed by Rep. Robert Ace Barbers. The bill seeks the creation of the Artificial Intelligence Development Authority (AIDA) to oversee the development and implementation of AI technologies in the country. Its primary objectives include:
Developing a National AI Strategy: Crafting a comprehensive plan to harness AI's potential for economic growth and public service improvement.
Promoting Research and Development: Encouraging innovation in AI through funding and support for academic institutions, businesses, and government agencies.
Enhancing Workforce Skills: Implementing education and training programs to develop AI talent and skills among Filipinos.
Ensuring Ethical AI Use: Conducting risk assessments and impact analyses to ensure AI technologies comply with ethical guidelines and protect individual welfare.
The establishment of AIDA is a significant step towards positioning the Philippines as a leader in AI innovation and development. By fostering a robust AI ecosystem, the country can address societal and industrial challenges, stimulate economic growth, and promote inclusive development. The proposed authority will also play a crucial role in balancing AI innovation with ethical considerations, ensuring that the transformative potential of AI is aligned with the principles of data privacy.
The creation of the Artificial Intelligence Development Authority represents a forward-thinking approach to embracing AI technology while safeguarding the interests and welfare of Filipinos. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be essential to engage various stakeholders to ensure that the vision of AIDA aligns with the broader goals of national development and technological advancement.
References:Â