PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said that the Philippines must fully harness artificial intelligence (AI), including in drafting laws, while guarding against its risks.

Speaking in the latest BBM Podcast with three student interviewers, Marcos pointed out that technology often moves faster than Congress can keep up.

“Legislation is always years behind technology. And the reason is, generally, legislators do not immediately understand technology,” he said.

“Meron diyan medyo techie na nakakaintindi pero karamihan hindi. So what will (they) legislate?”

He said the country should maximize AI’s benefits but stay alert to potential misuse.

“What’s the best way for the Philippines to take full advantage, to maximize the use of AI… The other side of the equation is: what are the things na kailangan bantayan natin,” he added.

Marcos also stressed the need to curb “fake news” and disinformation, noting that AI tools must be used responsibly.

He earlier said the government is studying the use of AI to monitor flood control projects, with systems capable of checking contract processes and flagging irregularities.