Fortified against yesterday’s war

The Philippines' low AI readiness score of 21 out of 100, placing it 43rd globally, reflects a broader trend across ASEAN. While the headline might suggest a unique Philippine problem, the reality is that major Southeast Asian economies like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia also score poorly, all in the 20s. This suggests a systemic regional challenge in AI infrastructure, talent, and policy, rather than an isolated issue for one nation. For Asian tech professionals, this means the region is still in the early stages of AI adoption and development. The opportunity lies in foundational investments in data infrastructure, AI education, and regulatory frameworks that can foster innovation. Without concerted efforts, ASEAN risks falling further behind global leaders, impacting its long-term economic competitiveness and ability to attract advanced tech investments. The thing to watch is whether governments will move beyond general statements to implement specific, measurable AI development plans.