While artificial intelligence (AI) tools may seem intimidating and complex, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Philippines are being advised to take gradual but steady steps towards exploring their potential. According to Dennis Anthony Uy, CEO of Converge ICT Solutions Inc. and Chairman of the 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E), AI can significantly enhance operations, making them more efficient and scalable. This push for technology adoption comes as new technologies, especially generative AI, become increasingly widespread globally.
The Imperative of AI Adaptation for MSMEs
Companies worldwide are actively adapting to AI, but in the Philippines, businesses are “barely scratching the surface.” Smaller enterprises, many of which are just beginning their digitalization journey, face the challenge of learning new ways of operating amidst the growing pervasiveness of these technologies. Uy emphasized that AI is not exclusive to large corporations; micro and small businesses can also find a foothold in this game-changing technology. AI adoption offers MSMEs the potential to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and gain a crucial competitive edge in the market.
Finding a Niche in the Global AI Value Chain
Following a trip to Taiwan, a global hub for the semiconductor industry, Uy noted AI’s pervasive integration across most technology sector manufacturing value chains. He believes that if the Philippines can carve out a niche in this global value chain, the multiplier effect on employment, skills upgrading, and downstream industries would be massive. While micro and small businesses may not yet participate in these larger chains, they can significantly benefit by taking initial, manageable steps in adapting AI tools to their operations.
Local Government Pledges Support for Digital Future
Bataan Governor Jose Enrique “Joet” Garcia III has pledged his provincial government’s support to make Bataan “future-ready.” This commitment involves actively hosting startups and fostering digitally-enabled businesses within the province. Governor Garcia highlighted the creative and innovative industry as key to accelerating productivity and growth, especially for the youth who are inherently adept with digital devices. This local government backing creates a conducive environment for MSMEs to explore technological advancements.
Real-World AI Solutions for Small Businesses
The practical possibilities of AI use were demonstrated firsthand by micro and small businesses during the Byte Forward Hackathon. This event, jointly organized by Converge, PCCI, the Department of Trade and Industry, and Converge subsidiary Rev21 Labs, focused on real-world problems. Converge and participating small businesses identified actual pain points, which ten teams of third and fourth-year college students from Bataan then addressed with AI-aided solutions, showcasing tangible benefits.
AI Takes Center Stage at National Business Conference
Artificial intelligence is set to be a major focus at the upcoming 51st Philippine Business Conference and Expo (PBC&E), organized by the PCCI. As Chairman of the Conference, Dennis Anthony Uy deliberately steered the event to be “technology-forward,” aiming to bring modern, digital solutions directly to MSMEs. The Conference, scheduled for October 20-22 at the SMX Convention Center, is designed to empower small businesses with the knowledge and tools needed for AI adoption.
