AI in Global Affairs Takes Center Stage at Roundtable Discussion at Benilde
AI in Global Affairs Takes Center Stage at Roundtable Discussion at Benilde
24 March 2025
Artificial intelligence is reshaping diplomacy and governance, influencing everything from decision-making to cybersecurity. On March 14, Benilde School of Diplomacy and Governance (SDG) convened key experts and stakeholders at the Roofdeck of Hotel Benilde to explore AI’s implications in a roundtable discussion that highlighted the evolving landscape of international relations.
Benilde Vice Chancellor for Academics Mr. Angelo Lacson emphasized during his opening remarks that AI is no longer a distant concept but an active force shaping global diplomacy and governance. “AI is already influencing negotiations, security policies, and governance structures worldwide,” he said.
Ms. Catherine Samaniego, chairperson of the Diplomacy and International Affairs Program, moderated the discussions. She ensured active engagement among panelists and attendees, facilitating diverse perspectives on AI’s role in diplomacy and governance. She highlighted the need for structured dialogue to tackle emerging global challenges.
AI’s Role in Diplomacy and Global Affairs
Dr. Emmanuel C. Lallana, Chief Executive of Ideacorp, and a renowned expert on AI and digital governance, delivered a comprehensive analysis of AI’s impact on diplomacy, its geopolitical consequences, and the ethical dilemmas it presents.
“AI is influencing the balance of power,” Lallana stated. “It plays a role in the US-China tech race, military applications, and governance frameworks. Countries that fail to adapt will find themselves at a disadvantage.” He highlighted AI’s use in diplomatic training, crisis response, and negotiation simulations while cautioning against biases in AI models. “A model trained on Western diplomatic norms may misrepresent non-Western perspectives, reinforcing imbalances in global governance,” he noted.
Mr. Frederic Grillet, First Secretary of the EU Delegation to the Philippines, emphasized the European Union’s regulatory approach to AI. “The EU AI Act is the world’s first comprehensive AI legislation, ensuring transparency and accountability in AI applications,” he said. Grillet also addressed concerns about AI-generated misinformation, citing its influence on elections and international relations. “We have seen AI-powered disinformation campaigns manipulate narratives and distort public perception,” he added.
Mr. Michael Ting-Sheng Lee, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), shared Taiwan’s perspective, highlighting AI’s role in governance and cybersecurity. “Taiwan uses AI to strengthen democracy and counter cyber threats, particularly in light of external disinformation efforts,” he said.
Benilde Chancellor Mr. Benhur Ong stressed the importance of looking beyond AI’s surface-level capabilities. “What we have today is weak AI—highly advanced computing, but not true intelligence. The real risk is how AI can be weaponized in geopolitical conflicts,” he warned.
Shaping Future Diplomats and Governance Leaders
The roundtable discussion reaffirmed Benilde’s commitment to preparing students for the evolving landscape of diplomacy and governance. Through its Bachelor of Arts in Diplomacy and International Affairs (AB-DIA) and Bachelor of Arts in Governance and Public Affairs (AB-GPA) programs, SDG equips students with analytical skills and policy expertise to navigate AI-driven global affairs.
Ms. Maricel Fernandez-Carag, chairperson of the Governance and Public Affairs Program, shared insights from a recent survey conducted with Benilde students on AI readiness in diplomacy and governance. The findings revealed a gap in preparedness, sparking discussions on how SDG can enhance AI integration in its curriculum. She also emphasized the need for data-driven policymaking and AI ethics, referencing UNESCO’s global ethics repository as a framework for responsible AI governance.
“Students must understand not only AI’s capabilities but also its ethical and policy implications,” Dr. Gary Ador Dionisio, Dean of the Benilde School of Diplomacy and Governance, explained. “This is why we integrate emerging technologies into our curriculum and expose students to real-world discussions like this roundtable.”
AI-driven governance, diplomatic negotiations, and cybersecurity frameworks are areas where Benilde-trained professionals are poised to make significant contributions. Roundtable discussions on emerging global concerns, such as this event, demonstrate how Benilde not only fosters academic dialogue but also positions its students at the forefront of addressing critical global issues.
The discussion concluded with a call to action for policymakers, academics, and students alike. AI is here to stay, and institutions like Benilde are ensuring that future leaders are prepared to engage with it responsibly and strategically.
For more information on Benilde’s Diplomacy and International Affairs program, Governance and Public Affairs program, and other undergraduate programs, contact us at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1801 or admissions@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit our website at www.benilde.edu.ph
