MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. pushed for deeper cooperation with George and Amal Clooney on safeguarding press freedom and developing responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) oversight, underscoring the administration’s intent to align with global advocates amid fast-evolving digital challenges.
The President raised the need for stronger international partnerships during the couple’s courtesy visit to Malacañang Palace on November 14, where discussions centered on how governments, civil society, and global experts can collaborate to protect journalists and ensure technology is used ethically.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Amal Clooney highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence to widen access to justice worldwide. Marcos, officials said, agreed but emphasized that innovation must go hand-in-hand with safeguards.
“President Marcos welcomed this and added the need for responsible regulation to ensure the ethical and secure use of AI,” the PCO said.
Marcos also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to defending press freedom, assuring the Clooneys that the Philippines aims to sustain a climate where journalists can operate independently and safely.
He further expressed hopes that the couple would find their stay meaningful as they take part in local engagements promoting civil liberties and emerging technologies.
The Clooneys are in the country to headline the Social Good Summit 2025 today, Nov. 16, in Pasay City, where they are expected to discuss free expression, civil rights, and the global implications of rapidly advancing digital tools.
George Clooney, aside from his acclaim in film, has long been involved in humanitarian initiatives, while Amal Clooney — an international human rights barrister — holds key academic posts at Oxford University, including Professor of Practice in International Law at the Blavatnik School of Government and Senior Fellow at the Oxford Institute of Technology and Justice./PN
