Cebu businesses urged to harness AI without losing human touch

Local

CEBU businesses must embrace artificial intelligence (AI) while continuing to invest in people, skills, and creativity if they hope to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving economy.

Industry leaders made this call during the Cebu Business Month (CBM) 2026 Technology and Innovation Forum on Thursday, June 18.

The forum, held at a hotel in this city, marked the first CBM Technology and Innovation Forum dedicated to AI, bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, government officials, and educators to discuss how technology is reshaping industries and opportunities.

Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Regan Rex King underscored the need for businesses to adapt to AI-driven change while keeping human capital at the center of growth.

"Our biggest competitive advantage will always be people," King said, noting that organizations must equip workers with the skills and mindset needed to learn, adapt, and thrive amid technological disruption.

CBM 2026 Digital Transformation and Technology Chair Joslyn Canon echoed the call, urging companies—particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises—to view AI as an accessible tool rather than a distant concept reserved for large technology firms.

"The future is not waiting," Canon said, adding that AI is already helping organizations automate routine tasks, process information faster, and improve efficiency.

Mata Technologies Inc. Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer Ryan Tan Yu expanded on the discussion, describing AI adoption as one of the defining questions facing organizations today.

While innovation has consistently transformed industries, he said businesses should avoid treating technology as a substitute for human talent.

He pointed to examples of organizations that faced criticism after relying heavily on AI-generated content, demonstrating the risks of sacrificing authenticity and creativity.

Instead, Tan Yu said AI delivers the greatest value when used to enhance human capabilities. He cited Cebu as an example of a region embracing innovation while preserving its identity.

During major international engagements earlier this year, organizers prioritized direct coordination with local communities and authentic experiences rather than relying solely on AI-generated materials.

He also highlighted a 72-hour art initiative that brought together Cebuano artists to create hand-drawn works in support of the city's UNESCO Creative City designation.

According to Tan Yu, Cebu's youthful workforce, English proficiency, and cultural adaptability position the province to thrive in the digital age.

Rather than competing directly with machines, he said Cebu's advantage lies in guiding and maximizing AI through human creativity and expertise.

"We are best positioned not to compete with AI, but to drive it," Tan Yu said.(MyTVCebu)