The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued new guidelines on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in basic education, stressing that a human-centered approach must remain at the core of teaching and learning.
In a 49-page department order dated Feb. 20, Education Secretary Sonny Angara acknowledged the rapid expansion of AI tools in classrooms.
“This situation exposes learners to risks such as data privacy breaches, unverified and misleading instructional content, and the uneven application of AI tools across schools,” Angara said.
The guidelines outline key principles anchored on international frameworks developed by organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Among these principles is the adoption of a “human-centered and pedagogically appropriate” approach to AI integration in the teaching and learning process.
Angara emphasized that AI should complement—not replace—the role of teachers and human judgment, and must not undermine the intellectual and relational skills of learners.
DepEd said the guidelines also align with the Artificial Intelligence Act of the European Union and the ASEAN 2025 Expanded AI Guide, categorizing AI applications according to risk levels, imposing stricter controls on high-risk uses, and enabling safe innovation for tools deemed minimal or limited risk.
