Group pushes for AI-powered education reform

MANILA, Philippines — Amid the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into the country’s education system, the consumer advocacy group CitizenWatch Philippines yesterday pushed for reforms that go beyond teaching technical skills, stressing that values formation, citizenship and critical thinking must also be taught to students.

In a statement, CitizenWatch Philippines co-convenor and former representative Kit Belmonte said AI presents a significant opportunity to improve learning outcomes, expand access to quality education and prepare Filipino students for an increasingly digital and competitive global economy.

Belmonte said technology should serve the broader purpose of developing responsible citizens and future leaders.

“Artificial intelligence can transform how we teach and learn, but it cannot replace the fundamental purpose of education. Education should not only prepare young Filipinos to prosper. It should prepare them for citizenship, leadership and meaningful participation in society,” Belmonte said.

He added that, at a time when the country’s students continue to face learning recovery challenges and lag behind many of their regional peers in key learning assessments, AI should be viewed as a tool to strengthen teachers and improve learning outcomes rather than as a substitute for educators.

“The future of Philippine education will be determined by how effectively we raise the quality of learning across the entire public education system. That is where AI can make the biggest difference,” he said.