SENATOR Risa Hontiveros challenged graduates of Cebu Technological University (CTU) to remain compassionate, ethical, and socially responsible as they enter the workforce, stressing that human values will continue to matter even as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly advanced.

In a message to the graduating classes of CTU Tuburan and CTU Tabuelan, Hontiveros congratulated the students on reaching a significant milestone in their academic journey and encouraged them to use their education to make a positive impact on society.

“Dear graduates, I repeat my challenge to you: do not become numb. We need heart. Because that is something AI cannot do,” Hontiveros said.

The senator emphasized that academic excellence should not be measured solely by knowledge acquired from books, but also by discipline, compassion, and concern for others.

“Your brilliance should not only come from books. It is in your heart. It is in discipline. It is in compassion. And wherever your intelligence takes you, I hope you never allow your heart to grow smaller,” she said.

Hontiveros noted that while artificial intelligence will continue to evolve and become more powerful, qualities such as integrity, empathy, accountability, and compassion remain uniquely human and irreplaceable.

“We need more trustworthy and ethical professionals,” she said. “AI will continue to become more powerful, but some human qualities like integrity, compassion, empathy, and accountability will never lose their value.”

The senator also urged graduates to use their skills and talents to create meaningful change and improve the lives of others.

“Build what is honest and what makes life better for others,” Hontiveros told the graduates.

She concluded her message by congratulating the graduating classes of CTU Tuburan and CTU Tabuelan and encouraging them to continue striving for excellence.

“Padayon,” she said, using the Visayan term for moving forward and persevering.