AICON Manila 2026 aims to explore how Filipinos can shape their own AI future

The Philippines is set to host its largest gathering on artificial intelligence and analytics this year, as AICON Manila 2026 returns on August 25 to tackle a pressing question: how should Filipinos shape the AI systems that increasingly influence their work, education, and daily lives? Organized by the Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines (AAP), AICON Manila is positioned as the country's leading learning event on AI and analytics. This year's edition carries the theme "Human by Design: Building the AI Future We Choose," reflecting a growing push for the Philippines to take an active role in AI adoption and governance rather than simply importing frameworks built elsewhere. Putting Filipino Values at the Center of AI Adoption Organizers say the event's theme reflects a broader argument: that AI development in the Philippines should be guided by local needs and priorities rather than global trends or international benchmarks. The goal, according to AAP, is to make sure AI systems used in Philippine schools, businesses, and government institutions genuinely serve Filipino communities rather than simply mirroring standards set abroad. Michelle Alarcon, President and Co-Founder of AAP, framed the stakes for the country's AI trajectory: "We have a choice. Rather than merely following trends, the Philippines should dictate what AI's role is in our shared future. 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." What to Expect at AICON Manila 2026 The conference is built around practical, applied learning rather than theoretical discussion. Expected programming includes: Three plenary keynotes from industry and government leaders Two panel discussions on AI implementation and governance 24 breakout sessions structured as interactive workshops instead of traditional lectures An ecosystem hub featuring 24 exhibitors and market leaders in AI and analytics Organizers say the workshop-style breakout format is meant to encourage dialogue and hands-on learning, giving attendees direct access to case studies, implementation journeys, and frameworks they can bring back to their own organizations. The event will also serve as a networking space, connecting attendees with AI practitioners, business leaders, and technology solution providers. AICON Manila 2026 is expected to draw 800 attendees, spanning business leaders, technology professionals, educators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. Speaker Lineup Confirmed speakers so far include: Anton Reynaldo Bonifacio, Chief Intelligence and Trust Officer, Globe Telecom — plenary keynote Michelle Alarcon, President and Co-Founder, AAP — plenary keynote Sherwin Pelayo, Chair, Technical Panel on AI and Data Analytics, Commission on Higher Education — on pathways from learning to work Derick Ohmar Adil, Chief Standards and Certifications Officer, International AI Safety Commission — on AI safety and governance Pam Cabudoy, Chief Data Scientist and Group Head for Data Science and Analytics, RCBC — on enterprise AI Jenny Echevarria, Vice President for Enterprise Data and Strategic Services, Globe Telecom — on building business value with trust AAP says additional keynote speakers, panelists, and workshop facilitators from both the Philippines and abroad will be announced as the program is finalized. Building on Last Year's Momentum AICON has grown steadily since its inception. The 2025 edition attracted more than 600 AI professionals and enthusiasts representing 126 organizations across 25 industries, with 28 speakers and 19 exhibitors and partners participating. By holding the conference annually, AAP says it aims to sustain an active, connected AI ecosystem in the Philippines that continues engaging stakeholders well beyond the event itself. Why It Matters As AI adoption accelerates across sectors, AICON Manila 2026 positions itself as a venue for a distinctly Filipino conversation about the technology's role — one that organizers hope will move beyond passive consumption of AI tools toward active participation in how those tools are designed, deployed, and governed. Whether attendees are just starting their organization's AI journey or already leading enterprise-scale transformation, the conference aims to offer practical guidance grounded in real-world implementation experience. AICON Manila 2026 takes place August 25 at SPACE @ One Ayala Mall, Makati City.