Rural AI adoption seen boosted by greater broadband penetration

THE PHILIPPINES needs to strengthen broadband penetration in rural areas to fully harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), according to industry representatives.

“The hardest part in (adopting AI in) the more remote workplaces is to make sure you get connectivity in the first place,” Microsoft Philippines Chief Executive Officer Peter D. Manquera said during a panel discussion at the BusinessWorld Forecast 2025 forum Tuesday.

Dominic Ligot, founder and chief executive offer of tech startup CirroLytix, said the government should further prioritize the adoption of AI.

“AI is not seen as a big deal, it’s on the list of maybe 20 technologies if you look at the national ICT (information and communications technology) roadmap,” he told the panel.

“Before you talk IoT (internet of things), blockchain, 5G, do AI first because AI can teach you all of these other things,” he added.

Around 46% of Filipinos use AI a few times a week or a few times a month for work or personal needs, according to the “Decoding Global Talent” report issued by Jobstreet By SEEK.

However, 42% of Filipinos have never heard of or heard of but never used AI, slightly higher than the Southeast Asian average of 41%.

Languages like Bisaya and Ilonggo can be integrated in large language models, resulting in a more inclusive adoption of AI in rural areas, Mr. Manquera added.

Mr. Ligot also cited the need for reforms in the education system, particularly with regard to raising the number of instructors knowledgeable in AI. Private sector organizations based in the regions should also do engage in training to tap the potential AI opportunities there, he added.

“I think that it’s a huge opportunity for everyone not just in the Philippines but worldwide to upskill themselves because the opportunities are endless,” Natalie Pia H. Azarcon, managing partner at IBM Philippines, told the forum. — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz