8 Big Conversations to Expect at the 8th GAIN National Convention on Agentic AI

The rise of agentic AI, a form of artificial intelligence that can operate with little or no human intervention, is pushing businesses, educators, and policymakers to rethink the future of work. The 8th GAIN National Convention, happening on August 29 at the AIM Conference Center in Makati City, will gather leaders from government, academe, and industry to unpack how this technology could shape the Philippines.

Here are eight conversations set to define the event:

1. What Makes Agentic AI Different from Generative AI
   Unlike generative AI that relies on prompts, agentic AI is designed to act independently. Microsoft research shows that 89% of Philippine companies are preparing to deploy AI agents in the next 12 to 18 months, underscoring the urgency of the discussion.
2. Preparing Filipino Talent for an AI-Driven Future
   GAIN President Monette Iturralde-Hamlin emphasized that this year’s convention will focus on actionable steps in training local talent, aligning education and policies with an AI-enabled economy.
3. Agentic AI in Southeast Asian Education
   SEAMEO Innotech’s Deputy Director Kochakorn Khattapan-Acidre will share insights on how schools across the region are adopting AI to improve learning outcomes and prepare students for an AI-integrated world.
4. How AI is Redefining Education, Government, and Business
   Rex Wallen Tan, CTO of Southville Global Education Network, will explain what agentic AI is at its core and how its applications are transforming different sectors.
5. Business Efficiency Through AI Adoption
   Industry representatives like Doc Ligot from the Philippine AI Business Association, Ida Tiongson from Fintech Alliance PH, and JL Botor from the Healthcare Information Management Association of the Philippines will outline how AI can streamline processes and create new opportunities.
6. Cross-Sector Collaboration for an AI-Ready Philippines
   A panel featuring government, academe, and industry leaders will examine how collaboration can ensure that the country adapts responsibly and inclusively to the rise of agentic AI.
7. Showcasing GAIN’s Flagship Initiatives
   Beyond the AI conversation, the convention will highlight GAIN-led programs like the Reading Program at Southville International School and Colleges, open-access English learning resources, and a Duolingo English course tailored for Tagalog speakers.
8. Strengthening the Global Competitiveness of Filipino Talent
   GAIN Chairman Peter Laurel stressed that the convention is not just about technology but about ensuring that Filipino professionals remain globally competitive in the era of rapid digital transformation.

The convention carries the theme “Shaping Tomorrow: Gaining Momentum in the Era of AI” and is open to limited participants.