ILO's AI in SCORE Programme Fuels Philippine SMEs Growth

Published Date : 2/10/2025 

The ILO's SCORE Programme in the Philippines is revolutionizing SMEs by integrating artificial intelligence, enhancing productivity, and promoting inclusive growth. 

The International Labour Organization (ILO) has taken a significant step forward in the Philippines by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its Sustaining Competitive and Responsible Enterprises (SCORE) Programme. This initiative aims to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with practical, low-cost digital tools to boost productivity, workplace cooperation, and inclusive growth.

The SCORE Programme, which has been operational since 2022, has already supported numerous Philippine enterprises in adopting global best practices in teamwork, occupational safety and health (OSH), and performance tracking. Now, through the UN Joint Programme Inclusive, Competitive, and Responsible Digital Philippines (Digital-PINAS), the programme is entering a new phase by bringing AI directly into SCORE training and factory operations.

On 5-7 August 2025, SCORE trainers participated in a landmark refresher series on AI for Enterprise Improvement Teams (EITs). Led by ILO experts and SCORE Master Trainers, the sessions highlighted how AI can help SMEs become more agile, data-driven, and competitive. The training emphasized the practical applications of AI in various aspects of enterprise operations.

Key highlights of the AI integration with SCORE include:

- Smarter Collaboration : AI tools now assist EITs in drafting workplace documents, streamlining grievance procedures, and enhancing communication across teams. This ensures that teams are more efficient and cohesive.

- Faster, Real-Time KPI Tracking : Platforms like Meta AI and ChatGPT enable SMEs to instantly process and visualize data on Quality, Cost, Delivery, Morale, and Safety (QCDMS). This real-time data helps in identifying trends and responding swiftly to issues.

- AI at Work in the Factory : Practical applications include predictive maintenance, AI-powered safety checks, and digital dashboards that reduce manual tasks and empower workers to focus on problem-solving. These tools not only enhance productivity but also ensure a safer working environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the SCORE Programme?

A: The SCORE Programme is a global ILO initiative that promotes sustainable enterprise development through better workplace practices, focusing on teamwork, occupational safety and health, and performance tracking.

Q: How does AI integration benefit SMEs?

A: AI integration in the SCORE Programme helps SMEs become more agile, data-driven, and competitive by providing tools for smarter collaboration, real-time KPI tracking, and practical applications in factory operations.

Q: What are some practical applications of AI in the factory?

A: Practical applications include predictive maintenance, AI-powered safety checks, and digital dashboards that reduce manual tasks and empower workers to focus on problem-solving.

Q: How does the programme ensure inclusive innovation?

A: The programme emphasizes that AI empowers workers rather than replacing them, promoting inclusive innovation and decent work by modernizing operations and safeguarding workers' rights.

Q: Who are the partners in this initiative?

A: The initiative is implemented by the ILO in partnership with the UN Joint Programme Inclusive, Competitive, and Responsible Digital Philippines (Digital-PINAS) and other development partners. 

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