Digital transformation in the Philippines has shifted from adoption to optimization, yet shadow AI—the use of unauthorized tools to manage workloads—has quietly become embedded in daily workflows, according to a report by BusinessWorld.

A recent Salesforce survey reveals that 76% of knowledge workers in the Philippines use AI at work, but only 34% have received formal training on the technology. This gap underscores the prevalence of ungoverned AI adoption and the risks it poses to data security and operational integrity.

To lead in the AI landscape, the Philippine job market must cultivate a data-ready culture that prioritizes proper training, governance, and ethical use of AI tools. Experts emphasize that without institutionalizing data literacy and clear policies, the benefits of AI will be undermined by the very shadow practices that have already taken root.