MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday called on Filipinos to actively participate in the country’s digital transformation, describing digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) as crucial tools for nation-building—especially at a time when disinformation, deepfakes, and scams are on the rise.

In the latest episode of his weekly vlog, Marcos framed digital innovation as a pillar of his administration’s Bagong Pilipinas vision, which aims to reform key sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture, and trade.

“Digitalisasyon sa mga serbisyo ng pamahalaan. Digitalisasyon sa edukasyon, sa kalusugan, sa agrikultura at marami pang iba,” he said, emphasizing the wide-ranging benefits of embracing digital tools in government and daily life.

While acknowledging the conveniences technology brings—such as faster processes, reduced corruption, and better services—Marcos urged the public to use tech responsibly.

“Ang teknolohiya ay nandito upang padaliin ang ating buhay… Para maging mabilis ang proseso… Higit sa lahat para magtaguyod at magbuklod ng pamilyang Pilipino. Hindi para sirain ito,” he added.

The President also highlighted the importance of harnessing AI as a learning tool, noting that consistent use improves its responsiveness. He encouraged Filipinos to explore AI in everyday tasks like finding directions or writing assistance.

“Ang AI, natututo. Mas lalo mong gagamitin, mas lalong gagaling ang sagot sayo… Pagkatagal nang panahon makikita ninyo, iyong sagot ng AI sa mga tanong niyo ay paganda nang paganda,” Marcos said.

The vlog also included a lighthearted AI-generated segment showing the President morphing into a leather-jacket-wearing rockstar on a concert stage—showcasing the technology’s creative potential.

But behind the spectacle, Marcos sounded the alarm on AI’s darker side, warning that the same tools enabling progress are also being exploited to spread false information.

“Nakakalungkot na ginagamit din ito ng masasamang-loob sa mga scams, sa mga fake news, sa pagpapalaganap ng maling impormasyon. At marami sa atin ang nabibiktima dito,” he said.

The government has launched several digital initiatives in response to these threats. Among them is “TunAI,” an AI-powered fact-checking tool embedded in a social media platform that helps users identify fake news. The Department of Information and Communications Technology is also developing a Philippine-built AI engine capable of interacting in local dialects to assist in crime reporting and information gathering.

As the administration continues to push for improved connectivity and smart public services through platforms like eGov PH, Marcos called on Filipinos from all sectors to take part in building a digitally empowered society.

“Digitalization is not just a tool—it’s a shared responsibility,” he said.