Unless they can shift to more knowledge-based services that mostly require human intelligence and skills, Filipino workers are more at risk of being replaced by Artificial Intelligence (AI), compared to their peers in the regions, according to the flagship economic outlook report of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) +3 Macro Research Office (AMRO).
It said that generative AI “will exhibit uneven impacts” both across and within economies in ASEAN+3, and could risk diverging growth trajectories.
“For example, given the relatively large size of the business process outsourcing service industry in the economy, the Philippines could face a greater risk of worker displacement – primarily those engaged in more routine work – as AI gradually reshapes ICT operations, unless it can move into more knowledge-based services,” AMRO said.
“Most economies – especially those with lower technological capabilities – could be more exposed to the potential disruption that comes with the broader adoption of AI technology,” it added.
AMRO’s assessment came at a time of growing anxiety over the potential impact of AI technology on jobs.
It added that the region’s existing digital divide could skew the distribution of economic benefits from Gen AI, with the more developed countries and privileged groups possibly reaping most of the rewards.
As the world adapts to artificial intelligence becoming part of the mainstream, some will want to minimize its impact on vulnerable sectors, while others will want to maximize its advantages. One may think that these two seemingly contradictory goals cannot survive together, but for those of us who belong in societies that can be described as having lower technological capabilities, there is no choice but to somehow make it work.
When a game changer is introduced, those that can adapt quickest are the ones that can benefit the most. If we are not yet ready, we will have to make the necessary adjustments so we can also adapt and also reap the benefits as soon as possible.*
