CEBU, Philippines — IBM Philippines has partnered with the Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers (PIIE) to promote artificial intelligence (AI) as a transformative tool for industries, particularly in manufacturing.
Led by President and Country General Manager Aileen Judan-Jiao, and Karthik Chandrasekaran, IBM Technology Leader, IBM experts were in Cebu during PIIE’s 20th anniversary celebration, marking a milestone in advancing industrial engineering and technological integration in the Philippines.
The collaboration underscores IBM’s focus on upskilling the workforce, fostering innovation, and ensuring AI accessibility for all roles within businesses.
In a press conference, Judan-Jiao emphasized that AI is not meant to replace human intelligence but to augment it, empowering industries to create higher-value jobs and enhance competitiveness. She highlighted the critical need for businesses to embrace AI as a strategic advantage.
“If we don’t level up, we risk getting left behind,” Judan-Jiao said adding that AI must be accessible across all roles in the business sector to ensure its successful adoption.
Chandrasekaran echoed this sentiment, stating that manufacturing is uniquely positioned to leverage AI for productivity gains. He dismissed fears of job displacement, highlighting opportunities for job evolution and upskilling.
IBM’s focus on Cebu is strategic. Judan-Jiao explained that as the Philippines’ second-fastest-growing region and manufacturing hub, Cebu offers fertile ground for AI implementation.
Companies in Cebu have already started integrating AI technologies, demonstrating its relevance and potential to transform industries.
“Cebu’s thriving manufacturing sector makes it an ideal location to showcase AI in action—its risks, opportunities, and relevance,” said Judan-Jiao.
Preparing the Workforce for AI Integration
Rodel “Audi” E.C. Adiviso, PIIE founding chairman, emphasized the urgent need for upskilling professionals to meet the demands of emerging technologies.
With over 7,000 members nationwide, PIIE has introduced certification programs and initiatives to expand the reach of industrial engineering expertise beyond Philippine borders.
“Injecting AI into our skill sets prepares professionals for innovations that augment human capacity,” said Adiviso.
IBM and PIIE aim to guide industry leaders in co-creating AI adoption strategies through education programs and forums, such as the recent CEO Forum and AI In Action in Cebu. The forum featured discussions on design thinking, AI education, and building a culture of innovation.
IBM’s new generative AI platform, WatsonX, is designed to mimic the human brain and is being trained to understand Southeast Asian languages, including Cebuano.
Judan-Jiao highlighted the importance of “trusted AI” in ensuring ethical and effective adoption.
The partnership between IBM and Meta for an AI Alliance further strengthens IBM’s commitment to driving trustworthy AI development in the Philippines.
Call to action for business leaders
Judan-Jiao and Chandrasekaran urged leaders to embrace AI, not only for its productivity benefits but also for its potential to create higher-value roles in the workforce.
“We are here to help upskill the industry and show them AI in action,” Judan-Jiao said. “AI is a competitive advantage, and it’s time for the Philippines to take the next step.”
As AI continues to reshape industries globally, partnerships like that of IBM and PIIE aim to ensure that the Philippines remains competitive and ready for the future of work. — (FREEMAN)