UNDP Highlights AI's Role in Driving Inclusive Development in the Philippines
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Philippines, together with the Philippine Human Development Network (HDN), held the Philippine launch of the 2025 Global Human Development Report (HDR) at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Headquarters in Makati City.
This year’s report, titled "A Matter of Choice: People and Possibilities in the Age of AI," gathered government officials, industry leaders, private sector representatives, academics, and civil society to discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) can support inclusive and sustainable human development.
AI’s Growing Influence on Development
The 2025 HDR, first released globally in Brussels, stresses AI’s increasing impact on economies and societies. It emphasizes the need for intentional decisions to ensure AI empowers people, reduces inequality, and aligns with development objectives—especially in developing countries like the Philippines.
Dr. Selva Ramachandran, UNDP Philippines resident representative, said: “AI could become an engine for opportunity and progress for everyone if we make the right choices about its use and governance today.”
Inclusive Innovation and Policy Frameworks
Speakers including Dr. Philip Arnold Tuaño (HDN), Commissioner Javey Francisco (SEC), and Hon. Reynaldo Cancio (Department of Economy, Planning, and Development) highlighted the importance of innovation that benefits all sectors and the need for strong policies to manage AI’s growth.
Dr. Tuaño noted, “Progress with AI is not automatic—it depends on the choices we make. AI should enhance human skills rather than replace them.”
Commissioner Francisco shared how the SEC is integrating AI to improve transparency and accountability. He explained that AI helps detect fraud, assess risks, and promote financial inclusion, allowing better support for sustainable businesses and investor protection.
Key Insights from the HDR 2025
Mohamed Shahudh, UNDP Philippines Economist, presented the report’s findings, followed by a panel discussion on “Shaping the AI Agenda for Human Empowerment and Inclusive Growth in the Philippines.” Panelists explored AI’s potential to:
- Boost productivity
- Improve public service delivery
- Create new economic opportunities
They also addressed challenges such as exclusion, job displacement, and unequal digital access.
Investment in education, research, and AI governance emerged as priorities. A recent IMF study shared at the event found that while one-third of Filipino workers face high exposure to AI, 61% of these roles could benefit from AI-driven productivity, particularly among younger, urban, and college-educated workers.
Engaging with AI’s Impact Across Sectors
The open forum allowed participants to discuss AI’s role in education, healthcare, and gender equity. The conversation emphasized AI’s potential to complement human capabilities rather than replace them.
The HDR also noted that the Philippines’ Human Development Index (HDI) rose to 0.720 in 2023 but highlighted ongoing challenges related to inequality and climate risks. The report suggests a strategic shift toward integrating AI to support human development goals sustainably.
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Read the full 2025 Global Human Development Report at the official UNDP website.
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