AI Is Not the Enemy: The Urgent Need for AI Literacy in the Philippines

By Ken Lerona

(This article was written with the use of AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming many sectors, from healthcare to governance. This article itself was written with the help of a popular Large Language Model (LLM) AI, showing how, when used responsibly, AI can be a powerful tool for the common good. However, recent incidents in the Philippines reveal a disturbing trend: AI is being exploited to manipulate and deceive the public. The issue is not AI itself—it is how it is used maliciously that poses the real threat.

AI Propaganda in Philippine Politics

A recent incident involving a senator who unknowingly shared an AI-generated post filled with false claims highlights just how vulnerable we are. AI-generated content can easily deceive, and even respected public figures can fall victim. If a senator can be misled by this technology, how can ordinary citizens be expected to discern truth from fiction?

This is why the time for endless debates and armchair analysis is over. As Kate Crawford, an AI ethics expert, has pointed out, “AI is not neutral; it reflects the power dynamics of those who create it.” The consequences of not engaging with AI are now unfolding before our eyes. The power to create convincing content, to shape public opinion, and to deceive large segments of the population is no longer in the hands of a few traditional media moguls but in the algorithms of tech companies. And in the Philippines, this is not a hypothetical issue—it’s one that is already causing significant harm.

The Need for AI Literacy

We need to improve AI literacy. This is not just about understanding how AI works—it’s about learning how to evaluate and question the information that AI produces. Education is the first line of defense. Schools and universities should include digital literacy programs that teach students to identify AI-generated content and understand its implications. The media, too, plays a vital role in educating the public about AI’s capabilities and risks.

Rather than relying on strict regulation, we need a more proactive approach: the academe, media, and tech companies must collaborate to educate society about AI. Maria Ressa, the Nobel laureate and media advocate, has warned about how social media platforms, powered by AI algorithms, amplify fake news. She emphasizes that we must educate ourselves to prevent misinformation from spreading unchecked.

AI for Good

Despite the risks, AI holds immense promise. In agriculture, AI can help predict weather patterns and optimize crop yields, making farming more efficient. In healthcare, AI can assist doctors in diagnosing diseases more accurately and at an earlier stage. These are just a few examples of how AI can enhance our lives if used responsibly. But for AI to truly benefit society, we need to ensure its use is ethical and transparent. Tech companies must take responsibility for how their AI tools are deployed. But accountability alone isn’t enough. Education and open communication are just as important.

The Dangers of AI Misuse

In the Philippines, AI-generated disinformation is already a threat. From fake health advice to manipulated images of public figures, AI is being used to spread false narratives. These incidents show how easy it is for AI to manipulate public opinion, especially when people don’t know how to identify AI-generated content.

We Must Act Now

AI is not the enemy. It’s a tool, and like any tool, it can be used for both good and ill. The problem isn’t AI itself, but how we choose to use it. Our inaction has allowed those with malicious intent to get ahead. We need to act now to ensure that AI is used responsibly. This means educating the public, promoting transparency, and holding tech companies accountable for the tools they create. We can’t afford to wait any longer. If we do, we’ll be the ones who pay the price.

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Ken Lerona is a business consultant with over 20 years of marketing and branding experience. He conducts talks and workshops for private and government organizations and consults on innovation and reputational risk management. Connect with him on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/kenlerona.