Sparking the Future: RC Ortigas Center Brings #AIReadyASEAN to Pasig Schools

In an era when anyone with a smartphone can generate perfect-looking videos and convincing audio, the line between real and fake is blurring daily. Deepfakes and AI-driven misinformation are no longer science fiction — they are used to spread scams, false endorsements, and even political disinformation. In the Philippines alone, scammers have recently circulated doctored videos of prominent figures promoting fraudulent investment schemes, while the national government has launched a special task force and deployed AI detection tools in response to a surge in reported deepfake cases. 

Recognizing the urgent need for digital vigilance, the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center delivered the #AIReadyASEAN program on November 12, 2025 to Kapitolyo High School, engaging more than 300 students eager to develop their digital competencies and broaden their understanding of emerging technologies. Kapitolyo High School is the first public school in Pasig City to have this program.

As part of the Hour of Code, the session provided students with a concise yet comprehensive introduction to the future of technology. Participants were oriented on the core objectives of the AI Ready ASEAN program: what it encompasses, why it is an essential learning framework, and how it equips young people to navigate today’s digital ecosystem with confidence, safety, and discernment.

AI Ready ASEAN is a flagship initiative of the ASEAN Foundation that seeks to strengthen AI literacy across all 11 Member States. Over the next 2.5 years, the program aims to capacitate 5.5 million individuals — including youth, educators, and parents — with foundational knowledge in artificial intelligence. Its overarching goal is to ensure that ASEAN communities can thrive in an increasingly technology-driven society while promoting responsible, ethical, and human-centered AI practices.

In a time when deepfakes, algorithmic manipulation, and AI-generated misinformation proliferate rapidly, the ability to critically assess digital content has become an indispensable skill. AI Ready ASEAN play a vital role in cultivating digitally literate citizens capable of distinguishing between credible information and deceptive online content. 

On September 29, the Rotary Club of Ortigas Center signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Break The Fake Movement to roll out this program across its adopted schools in Pasig City. We extend our gratitude to Paolo Ordonio, Executive Director of the Break The Fake Movement, alongside Master Trainers Rosemarie Abeciaand Aldei Rodriguez, for delivering an insightful and impactful learning experience.

This initiative was likewise made possible in collaboration with the Interact Club of Kapitolyo High School.

Together, we continue to empower the next generation to become AI-ready, critically informed, and future-forward leaders of the ASEAN community.

Submitted by: Rtn. Myron Montefalcon, Rotary Club of Ortigas Center, Rotary International District 3800