By CESAR JOLITO III
A proposed measure seeking to establish a national framework for the development and regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Philippines is gaining ground in the House of Representatives, with lawmakers emphasizing innovation while imposing safeguards on high-risk AI applications.
Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez, who chairs the technical working group (TWG) under the House committee on information and communications technology (ICT), said the proposed Artificial Intelligence Development and Regulation Act aims to create a distinctly Filipino approach to AI governance.
The proposed legislation prioritizes expanding AI development by providing computing resources for Filipino researchers, encouraging AI adoption among small businesses and educational institutions, and promoting innovation while limiting stricter regulations to AI systems deemed high-risk.
Under the current draft, only AI systems that significantly affect people’s access to loans, employment, healthcare, and other critical services would be subject to mandatory government registration and safety assessments.
Around 60 representatives from government agencies, regulatory bodies, industry groups, academic institutions, and civil society organizations participated in the deliberations held at Speaker Nograles Hall.
The measure consolidates 26 House bills, three House resolutions, and one privilege speech that were referred to the TWG as part of the House’s priority legislative agenda on AI.
During the discussions, stakeholders agreed that AI systems should support human autonomy, informed decision-making and meaningful human oversight.
They also proposed provisions addressing AI’s environmental impact, strengthening the country’s position in AI diplomacy amid global supply chain uncertainties, and developing sovereign AI capabilities to bolster national security.
The substitute bill also introduces a regulatory sandbox that would allow startups to develop, train, test, and validate AI systems under government supervision before full deployment.
To protect workers, the measure prohibits employers from dismissing employees based solely on decisions made by AI.
It also requires companies to provide a 60-day notice and retraining opportunities before implementing AI-related workforce displacement.
“The goal is a law our innovators can build on, our regulators can enforce, and every Filipino can trust,” Benitez said.
The House committee has given stakeholders until July 20 to submit proposed amendments through its secretariat.
The TWG is expected to reconvene later this month to continue refining the measure./CCJ, WDJ