On 19 September 2024, the National Association of Labor Arbiters, Inc. (“NALAI”) of the Philippines held the first of three days of its 2024 annual convention with the theme “Strengthening Labor Justice in the World of Artificial Intelligence.” The convention was held at Bai Hotel, Cebu, Philippines. 

The event, which gathered Labor Arbiters from across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, provided an important platform to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence in labor arbitration and the legal practice.

One of the convention's main events for its first day was the presentation of Atty. Gregorio R. Bilog IV – Partner at Siguion Reyna Montecillo & Ongsiako Law Offices and Co-Founder of Anycase.ai Technologies, Inc. Atty. Bilog was invited as a resource speaker to discuss the topic “AI Tools in Aid of Decision Writing and Legal Research”. 

During his presentation, Atty. Bilog demonstrated how artificial intelligence or “AI” can be harnessed to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of legal research and decision writing. Emphasizing practical applications, Atty. Bilog showcased various AI-powered tools that streamline both the legal practice and labor arbitration processes, offering real-time examples of how these technologies assist in analyzing vast amounts of legal data and ensuring more informed decision-making.

The convention attendees, composed of seasoned Labor Arbiters from the entire country, were highly engaged in the discussion and were eager to learn how technology can make them better lawyers and better labor arbiters. Many expressed their enthusiasm for integrating AI into their day-to-day responsibilities, acknowledging the potential of these innovations to revolutionize labor justice while maintaining fairness and efficiency.

More importantly, Atty. Bilog emphasized the challenges posed by technology and AI, which include key ethical considerations and practices when harnessing such technologies. 

Atty. Bilog provided key insights on why AI will not replace lawyers and labor arbiters – AI will aid and empower lawyers through technology that will increase and improve access to justice and help build our country by strengthening the rule of law.

This convention marked a pivotal moment in addressing the future of labor arbitration in the Philippines – with AI as a key tool in strengthening labor justice. The exchange of ideas and best practices ensured that everyone left with valuable insights to implement within their respective jurisdictions and practice areas.