A 2026 white paper from the World Economic Forum, “Four Futures for Jobs in the New Economy: AI and Talent in 2030,” shows that businesses using AI in at least one function jumped from 55 percent in 2022 to 88 percent today.
Meanwhile, LinkedIn’s September 2025 AI Labor Market Update reports that demand for AI literacy skills rose by 70 percent between 2024 and 2025, expanding beyond technology roles into marketing, sales, and design.
The reality on AI adoption
For Mapúa Malayan Digital College, the message is clear. In the AI era, complacency and incuriosity are major liabilities.
Derrick Latreille, chief learning officer of MMDC, says the rise of AI should push professionals to sharpen the skills that allow them to use technology meaningfully.
“This is why the term ‘AI slop’ exists. The tech may provide incomplete, overly general content or develop software that will eventually fail or make your systems vulnerable to security threats,” Latreille explained in a statement.
He added that AI is only as useful as the human engaging it and only as effective as the clarity and context provided by the user.
Why AI literacy now matters
Latreille stresses that mastering AI starts with strong critical thinking. Users must understand both the capabilities and limitations of the technology, especially as AI-generated outputs become more common in day-to-day work.
“It’s a must for a user to give AI the necessary context and clarity,” he says, noting that blind reliance on automation can lead to costly errors.
Turning AI into a real advantage
“Anyone can use AI, but not everyone will be turning in meaningful work,” Latreille says. “Using AI is just like using any other tool or technology. You have to learn to use it properly and effectively.”
He adds that AI should become a competitive advantage through understanding transformers, learning specific tools, and practicing prompt engineering methods that improve outcomes and decision-making.
The enduring value of human skills
Even as AI becomes more powerful, Latreille emphasizes that human strengths remain central. “Empathy, emotional intelligence, and sound ethical judgement, careful decision making, and imagination are still uniquely human qualities valued in the workplace,” he shares.
Machines, he said, cannot replace the ability to resolve complex conflicts, inspire teams, or make customers feel heard.
Why lifelong learning is non-negotiable
Latreille warned that relevance in an AI-driven economy depends on adaptability. “You won’t lose your job to AI, you’ll lose your job to someone using AI,” he says, underscoring the need for continuous reskilling.
MMDC positions itself as part of that solution. The fully online college has infused AI into its curriculum, offers 24/7 AI support, and follows a projects-based learning model designed to mirror real-world work.
With flexible degree programs and short-term certifications, MMDC aims to prepare learners not just to survive the AI era, but to lead in it. —Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
