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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a tech buzzword—it’s rapidly becoming part of everyday life, from social media filters to workplace automation. In Southeast Asia, where digital adoption continues to surge, the question is no longer if we should prepare for AI, but how fast. This is why the ASEAN Foundation, with the backing of Google.org, has introduced AI Class ASEAN, a groundbreaking e-learning platform that promises to upskill more than 5.5 million learners across the region—including thousands of Filipinos.
A Regional Milestone for AI Literacy
Unveiled during the 2nd Regional Policy Convening of AI Ready ASEAN in Kuala Lumpur, the AI Class ASEAN is one of the major outcomes of a 2.5-year regional program supported by a USD 5 million grant from Google.org. The platform’s mission is clear: to make AI literacy inclusive, accessible, and future-ready for ASEAN’s diverse communities.
The initiative brings together youth, parents, and educators, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to understand AI responsibly. With 70 localized modules, AI-powered chatbots, multilingual support, and collaborative forums, learners can access training in ways that suit their unique cultural and linguistic contexts.
Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation, emphasized during the launch that AI readiness is about more than just technical skills—it’s about opportunity and inclusion. “Empowering communities with the right knowledge ensures a future-proof ASEAN. AI Class ASEAN offers shared progress and connectedness for the entire region.”
A Summit to Shape the Future of AI
Held under the theme “Bridging AI Literacy and AI Safety: Building Responsible AI in ASEAN”, the two-day event brought together policymakers, educators, youth leaders, and private sector experts. The launch itself was marked by a ceremonial button-press, symbolizing ASEAN’s commitment to safe and ethical AI adoption.
Notable attendees included:
H.E. Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital of Malaysia
H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN
Ms. Sapna Chadha, VP for Southeast Asia & South Asia Frontier, Google Asia Pacific
The presence of top leaders highlighted the weight of this initiative—not just for technology, but for the future of education and economic growth in the region.
Local Impact: AI Literacy in the Philippines
For the Philippines, AI Ready ASEAN is more than just a digital program—it’s a step toward bridging the digital divide. Local Implementing Partners (LIPs) such as Break The Fake Movement, Limitless Lab, AYO PH, Cyber Guardian, and SmartCT have been crucial in making AI concepts understandable and accessible for students and communities.
The Break The Fake Movement, in particular, is taking the lead in integrating AI literacy with media and information literacy (MIL) to combat disinformation. Working closely with the Department of Education (DepEd), they’ve onboarded 100 Master Trainers to roll out Hour of Code sessions in schools and universities nationwide.
Paolo Miguel Ordonio, Executive Director of Break The Fake Movement, stressed that coding should not be seen as an exclusive skill for computer scientists. “Coding teaches critical thinking and problem-solving. By demystifying AI, we’re showing that it’s a skill anyone can learn—students, professionals, even parents.”
Why This Matters for Filipinos
With the Philippines’ young population and fast-growing digital economy, initiatives like AI Class ASEAN can be transformative. As AI reshapes industries—from BPO to education—Filipinos who are AI-literate will have a competitive advantage in the global job market.
Moreover, by teaching responsible and ethical AI use, the program also addresses concerns about misinformation, online safety, and inclusivity—issues that are especially relevant in the country’s highly active digital landscape.
AI Class ASEAN isn’t just another online course—it’s a movement to prepare Southeast Asia for an AI-driven future. For Filipinos, this means gaining the skills to thrive in an evolving economy while ensuring technology is used responsibly.
If you’re a student, teacher, or simply curious about how AI is changing our world, this initiative is worth exploring. The future is AI-powered, and with programs like this, we can make sure it’s also inclusive and ethical.