Artificial intelligence in Philippine education: A narrative review of applications, perceptions, and challenges

This narrative review analyzes the current status of artificial intelligence (AI) implementation in Philippine educational settings through a comprehensive synthesis of scholarly literature from 2018 to 2025. This study aims to identify current AI applications across different educational levels, analyze stakeholder perceptions and readiness, and determine implementation challenges in Philippine educational settings. A systematic literature search was conducted across Google Scholar, EBSCO Host, and ScienceDirect databases using search terms combining "Artificial Intelligence," "Philippines," and "Education". Following the selection criteria, 43 published studies underwent examination through Braun and Clarke's thematic analytical approach. Results indicate significant implementation disparities, with higher education institutions—particularly private universities in urban centers—demonstrating substantially more advanced AI integration than K-12 schools. Three major themes emerged: (1) current AI applications spanning teaching tools, student support systems, administrative functions, and research tools; (2) mixed stakeholder perceptions with students showing more positive attitudes than faculty; and (3) significant implementation challenges including infrastructure limitations and technical expertise gaps as major barriers. Key challenges include the urban-rural digital divide, insufficient professional development opportunities, ethical concerns around academic integrity, and the absence of comprehensive institutional policies. The study concludes that realizing AI's potential in Philippine education requires coordinated efforts to enhance technological infrastructure, develop educator capacity, establish appropriate policies, and ensure equitable access. The study recommends developing national AI education policy frameworks, investing in rural digital infrastructure, and implementing systematic professional training initiatives targeting technical skills and educational AI implementation.