Google Empowers Pinoys with New AI Tools and Tips for a Safer Digital Life

As the internet becomes more indispensable as to how Filipinos learn, work, and connect, Google Philippines is celebrating Safer Internet Day by highlighting how AI can be a powerful ally for online safety. Under the theme "sA Internet, Ingat!", Google is highlighting a suite of advanced tools designed to make online safety seamless and intuitive, ensuring that every Pinoy—from students to seniors—can navigate the AI era with confidence and peace of mind.

During the 2026 Safer Internet Day event, Google PH Head of Communications and Public Affairs Mervin Wenke discusses the AI tools and tips to help PInoy netizens navigate the internet safety including the new capabilities of Circle to Search and Google Lens to fight scams.

1. AI Tools to Outsmart Misinformation

Distinguishing human-led content from AI-generated media is now a critical life skill. Google recommends the “SIFT” method—Stop, Investigate the source, Find better coverage, and Trace claims—to evaluate online information. To support this, Google offers:

• About this Image: A Search tool that provides context on where an image originated.

• SynthID: Technology that embeds digital watermarks into AI-generated content to help identify deepfakes and manipulated media.

Prep Palacios, Country Manager for Google Philippines, emphasized the importance of online safety tips and tools, especially in the age of AI.

2. Fighting Scams in Real-Time

Scammers are increasingly using SMS and social media to lure victims. Google has supercharged Google Lens and Circle to Search to spot scam messages. If you receive a suspicious link or message, simply take a screenshot of the SMS and use Google Lens to scan it or long-press the home button of your Android device and circle the text. Google AI analyzes the content in real-time to alert you if it is a likely scam.

3. Ironclad Protection for Lost or Stolen Devices

Digital safety is compromised if a device is physically stolen. Google has upgraded security features for Android users to ensure your data remains yours alone:

• Theft Detection Lock: Uses on-device AI to sense motion and context that may indicate a "snatch-and-run" theft. If a theft attempt is detected, it will quickly lock the device screen to help protect your data.

• Biometric Identity Check: Adds a layer of security for sensitive settings.

• Failed Authentication Lock: Automatically secures the device after multiple incorrect login attempts.

Standing from left to right to mark Safer Internet Day are Putri Alam, Director of Government Affairs & Public Policy for Google Southeast Asia; Usec. Aboy Paraiso of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center; and Mervin Wenke, Head of Communications and Public Affairs for Google Philippines. 

Wenke also discussed the 2025 search trends in the Philippines involving online safety and cybersecurity. A positive development was the rise in the search for media literacy among Filipinos.

4. Building Healthy Digital Habits for Kids and Families

Safety begins at home. Google equips parents with the tools that can help their children navigate the web responsibly:

• Family Link: Set screen time limits, approve app downloads, and apply content filters.

• Be Internet Awesome programme provides resources for educators and families to empower young people to be smart, alert, strong, kind, and brave in the online world. 

• YouTube Shorts Timer: Allows parents to set specific time limits for short-form video consumption—even setting it to zero during homework time, an industry-first parental control. 

5. Fostering Critical Thinking with Gemini

As AI becomes a staple in education, Google is shifting the focus from "quick answers" to "deep understanding." Through Guided Learning in Gemini, students are encouraged to solve problems step-by-step. This approach prioritizes logic and critical thinking, ensuring AI serves as a tutor rather than a shortcut.

For more information and resources this #SaferInternetDay, explore our safety tools at https://safety.google/intl/en_in/settings/parental-controls

PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT Drive Intelligent Transformation in Retail with Google Cloud, Data, AI, and Managed Services

 PLDT Enterprise, together with ePLDT, recently brought together decision-makers from top retail brands for the Intelligent Enterprise Workshop for Retail, with sessions on Google Cloud’s AI solutions. The event showed how data-driven insights, AI readiness, and managed services can unlock innovation and help retailers reimagine day-to-day operations — from inventory management to customer engagement. 

PLDT Enterprise, in partnership with ePLDT, hosted the Intelligent Enterprise Workshop for Retail, gathering industry leaders to explore how data, AI, and managed services can transform retail operations and customer experiences.

The workshop, designed for retail leaders including CXOs, CMOs, and IT managers, addressed pressing challenges such as fragmented data systems, scalability issues, and the growing demand for secure and compliant AI-driven data strategies. By applying technology into real-world retail contexts, the session emphasized how AI and managed services can personalize shopping experiences while optimizing operational overhead. 

  

A Commitment to Retail Innovation

 

At the event, PLDT Enterprise reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the evolving needs of Philippine retailers. Through ePLDT’s expertise in managed services, the initiative highlighted how businesses can move beyond legacy systems toward scalable, secure, and future-ready digital infrastructure. 

 

“Today’s smart retailer is embracing a new era of shopping, blending human touch with technology to deliver a more tailored consumer experience,” said Corinne Funk-Zablan, Customer Relationship Management Head at PLDT Enterprise. 

  

Jerry Dy, Technology Solutions Consultant at ePLDT, added: “In today’s fast-evolving retail landscape, managed services play a critical role in enabling data-driven and AI-powered transformation. By providing scalable infrastructure, continuous optimization, and expert support, managed services empower retailers to focus on innovation — unlocking real-time insights, enhancing customer experiences, and accelerating intelligent decision-making across the enterprise.” 

  

Real-world AI-powered Use Cases  

 

Through live discussions and case studies, the workshop demonstrated how Google Cloud’s integrated data analytics and AI platform helps retailers break down data silos, deliver real-time insights, and personalize the customer journey. Real-world examples—such as AI-powered supply chain optimization, predictive inventory, and smarter in-store experiences—showed how these technologies translate into faster service, stronger customer loyalty, and more resilient operations. 

 

Participants also learned how Google Workspace with Gemini supports employees in day-to-day tasks by reducing administrative workloads and fostering collaboration across teams. 

  

Future-Proofing the Industry 

  

The workshop highlighted that while many retailers still face barriers in AI adoption, ranging from infrastructure gaps and data quality and security to skill readiness, solutions such as managed services, modernized data warehouse, and AI-powered analytics provide a clear path forward. 

 

By convening retail leaders, PLDT Enterprise and ePLDT are accelerating AI adoption and shaping a retail industry that is smarter, more secure, and more responsive to the everyday needs of modern Filipino consumers.

Learn more about what PLDT Enterprise can do for your business, visit https://bit.ly/pldtenterprise-intelligent-enterprise-pr 

About PLDT Enterprise

 

PLDT Enterprise is the corporate business arm of PLDT, the leading telecommunications and digital services provider in the Philippines. Dedicated to delivering innovative fixed-line, wireless, and ICT solutions, PLDT Enterprise enables businesses to adapt to evolving technological needs, optimize efficiency, continuity, and connectivity, and enhance customer experience. With a strong commitment to doing business responsibly, PLDT Enterprise aims to contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by enabling digital transformation, championing meaningful innovations, and bridging the digital divide.

 

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.