THE country’s manufacturing sector is seen as the industry that could be most vulnerable to worker displacement with the slow emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace.
In a radio interview, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said they see the manufacturing sector as being most likely to be adversely affected by the introduction of advanced technology in the workplace.
“We can see that those that really introduce modern technology, such as in manufacturing or those with workers in the production line, may really experience displacement in the coming years,” said Laguesma.
“We believe that where there is automation, there will be displacement of workers,” he added.
He said this predicament is expected, adding the government cannot prevent the advancement of modern technology.
“Artificial intelligence is brought about by the 4th Industrial Revolution and is seen as helping improve productivity and changes in the work process,” Laguesma said.
He stressed, however, that not all jobs can be replaced by AI.
“This (AI) cannot totally replace human resources. The skill set of workers is really different compared to these machines. They have these out-of-the-box strategies in doing their job,” said Laguesma.
As for those that are at risk of being displaced by AI, he said this should serve as a challenge to such workers to “level up.”
“We need to level up our skills also and not view new technologies in the negative at all times. We should adopt this concept of learning our whole lives. Workers must always be prepared,” said Laguesma.
Earlier, Albay 2nd district Rep. Joey Salceda warns that artificial intelligence (AI) is set to render many jobs obsolete.
Surigao del Norte 2nd District Rep. Robert “Ace” Barbers pushed for the creation of an agency that would regulate the development and implementation of AI technology in the country.
According to Laguesma, DOLE is in favor of having such a body as constant assessment and evaluation of new technology, including those in the workplace, is necessary.
