The House of Representatives is crafting an artificial intelligence (AI) law that will emphasize developing the technology while imposing strict rules on high-risk applications.

The proposed Artificial Intelligence Development and Regulation Act would expand computing access for Filipino researchers, promote AI adoption among small businesses and schools, and regulate AI systems used in critical decision-making such as in lending, hiring, healthcare and other high-risk areas.

“We studied Brussels, Washington and Beijing, but we are writing a Filipino law — one that works for the farmer, the teacher, and the small business owner in the province,” Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez of Negros Occidental’s 3rd District said.

Benitez, who chairs the technical working group (TWG) under the House Committee on Information and Communications Technology, said around 60 representatives from government agencies, regulators, industry, academe, and civil society participated in Monday’s deliberations at Speaker Nograles Hall.

The bill is a House priority — consolidating 26 House bills, three House resolutions, and one privilege speech into a substitute measure.

During the meeting, the stakeholders agreed that AI systems should uphold human autonomy, informed decision-making, and meaningful human oversight. They also proposed provisions addressing AI’s environmental impact, strengthening the country’s position in AI diplomacy amid volatile global supply chains, and developing sovereign AI capabilities to support national security.

Under the draft, most AI systems would not be required to register with the government. Registration and safety assessments would apply only to high-risk AI systems, while startups could develop and test new technologies through a government-run regulatory sandbox.

The measure also includes labor protections, prohibiting employers from dismissing workers based solely on an AI decision. Companies must provide at least 60 days’ notice and retraining before implementing AI-related job displacement.

“The goal is a law our innovators can build on, our regulators can enforce, and every Filipino can trust,” Benitez said.

Stakeholders have until 20 July to submit proposed amendments through the Committee on ICT Secretariat, with the TWG expected to reconvene later this month.