As artificial intelligence reshapes how Filipinos learn, work, do business, and make decisions, the country should play an active role in determining how AI is adopted, applied, and governed locally.
That will be the focus of AICON Manila 2026, set for August 25 at SPACE at One Ayala Mall in Makati City.
Organized by the Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines (AAP), the event will bring together business leaders, technology professionals, educators, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders to explore AI’s growing role in society.
This year’s theme, “Human by Design: Building the AI Future We Choose,” centers on the idea that AI should serve people and address local needs rather than simply follow global trends.
“We have a choice. Rather than merely following trends, the Philippines should dictate what AI’s role is in our shared future,” said Michelle Alarcon, President and Co-Founder of AAP.
“This year’s AICON is designed to tackle what this future may look like—for our local industries, our workforce, our society—with intentionality in the use of analytics and AI. We want practitioners, business leaders, educators, and policymakers to learn from real implementation experiences and make deliberate choices about building and using AI systems responsibly, centered on people,” she added
AICON Manila 2026 is expected to draw 800 attendees and will feature three plenary keynotes, two panel discussions, and 24 breakout sessions, alongside an ecosystem hub with 24 exhibitors and market leaders.
Among the announced speakers are Anton Reynaldo Bonifacio, Chief Intelligence and Trust Officer of Globe Telecom; Sherwin Pelayo of the Commission on Higher Education; Derick Ohmar Adil of the International AI Safety Commission; Pam Cabudoy of RCBC; and Jenny Echevarria of Globe Telecom.
Sessions will focus on practical applications, including AI safety and governance, enterprise AI, workforce development, and building business value with trust.
