MANILA -Filipinos are willing to learn more about the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, recognizing its potential impact on their jobs in the future, according to a study by online employment service firm LinkedIn.
In its recent research, LinkedIn revealed that about seven in 10 Filipino professionals it surveyed are open to know more about AI, a modern technology that is being honed to augment human learning.
This, as 76 percent agreed that AI will significantly change their jobs in the next year. Almost all of the surveyed Filipino professionals said they were “excited to use’’ AI as it is seen to help them with work.
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Nearly 60 percent of the respondents, however, said they were “feeling overwhelmed” by the “the amount of change AI may bring to their job in the future” that some were even worried they “wouldn’t be able to keep up with AI developments sweeping through the workplace.”
Nonetheless, some 55 percent of the respondents said they were already using AI in their jobs while 47 percent said they were trying out ChatGPT, a language model-based chatbot that can generate human-like text.
“This is undoubtedly an era of change with generative AI gaining more prominence in the workplace. It is encouraging to see professionals focus on the positives that AI can bring to their working lives,” said Atul Harkisanka, Linkedin head of growth markets and country lead for the Philippines.
The majority of the respondents expect AI tools to automate tedious tasks, allowing them to focus on more complex duties.
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“With their time freed up, many are looking to invest in themselves by learning new skills, focusing on more creative and strategic work, and growing their professional network—all of which are strong career boosters,” Harkisanka added.
Among the critical soft skills cited in the time of AI are problem-solving, creativity and communication.
According to a study conducted by global technology company IBM, 77 percent of entry-level jobs will evolve due to AI by 2025.
IBM Philippines president and technology leader Aileen Judan-Jiao, in an interview with the Inquirer, previously said this raised the need to upskill employees so they can adapt to new roles given the increasing use of AI to improve business operations.
“If you sit and do nothing, it (AI) might replace you. Don’t be complacent,” the IBM official said.
IBM noted that 50 percent of chief executive officers in Asean, including the Philippines, identified technology modernization as a top priority.