The Philippines is set to propose the establishment of a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence (AI) in Southeast Asia, drawing from its own draft legislation. Martin Romualdez, the speaker of the Philippine Congress, announced the plan at the World Economic Forum in Davos. 

The country intends to present the legal framework to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during its chairmanship in 2026. The proposed framework will address concerns related to generative artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Romualdez emphasized the importance of regulatory support to optimize AI developments within ASEAN.

While global regulators are actively working on regulations for generative AI, implementing such measures in ASEAN, with its 10 countries and diverse regulations, poses a challenge. The Philippine proposal stands in contrast to the business-friendly approach taken by ASEAN states in their draft “guide to AI ethics and governance.” The guide, seen by Reuters in October, is voluntary and aims to reduce compliance burdens, fostering innovation in the region, according to some technology executives.

Romualdez highlighted the significance of legislation on generative AI for the Philippines, particularly due to the vulnerability of its crucial business process outsourcing sector. He noted the sector’s current threat and emphasized the need for personnel transformation and upskilling to support generative AI effectively. Romualdez stressed the responsibility of the Philippine Congress to create a legal framework that not only suits the country but is also suitable for the broader ASEAN region.