Robin Padilla Pushes for Action as AI Concerns Grow in the Philippines
ROBIN PADILLA – As AI tools become easier for children to access, Senator Robin Padilla is raising questions about their possible impact on the younger generation.
Senator and actor Robin Padilla has expressed concern over the possible harmful effects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on children and young people, particularly as AI-powered tools become increasingly accessible to younger users.
Padilla raised the issue during a Senate hearing focused on the growing discussions surrounding AI and its impact on society. The concern was brought up during deliberations on Senate Bill No. 2424, also known as the “Child Online Safety and Protection Act,” which Padilla is supporting.
During the plenary session on Monday, September 14, Senator Risa Hontiveros asked Padilla about his views on generative AI platforms, including ChatGPT, Claude, and DeepSeek. These technologies are now readily available to young people and can be used for a wide range of purposes.
Hontiveros also cited concerns involving the misuse of generative AI, including its potential use in creating bomb-related materials and producing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials.
Padilla acknowledged that he personally shares concerns about the growing influence of AI.
“Sa katunayan, sa akin pong mismong personal na Facebook account, nandiyan po ‘yong aking takot na talagang ‘yong AI po ngayon, isang isyu rin po iyan na sa Estados Unidos.
“‘Yong mismong nag-imbento po ng AI ay sinasabi nila na darating ang panahon, na threat sa humanity ang AI,” said the actor and senator.
Padilla also revealed that his group is currently working on a resolution addressing AI-related concerns in the Philippines. He hopes the proposal will eventually be discussed by the Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, which he heads.
“Kami po ngayon ay nagpo-formulize ng isang resolution patungkol dito at ito po ay idudulog ko rin sa Senado, na sana po ang resolution na ito, kapag binigay namin ay mapunta rin po sa Public Information (Committee) ang pagdinig po dito,” Mariel Rodriguez’s husband said.
Padilla further pointed to the growing reliance on AI among students and professionals, saying its accessibility could pose challenges when used without proper guidance.
“Ito pong Chat GPT na ito, naging isyu na rin po ito kung maalaala ninyo sa Supreme Court. Ito po ay kinatakutan nila dahil ang atin pong mga bagong abogado at mga nag-aaral, nagre-rely na diyan.
“At alam n’yo naman ‘yong mga bata, malikot. Napakadaling tanungin, e, at napakadali mong sagutin.
“Kaya ako po ay handang tumanggap kung ano po ang gusto n’yong gawing hakbang diyan. Dahil ako po mismo, natatakot diyan sa AI,” Sen. Robin further stated.
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