BAGUIO CITY — SM City Baguio, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology–Cordillera Administrative Region, held an artificial intelligence learning session for children and senior citizens, according to a press release issued by SM Supermalls.

The activity brought together participants from different generations to discuss how artificial intelligence works, its practical uses and the importance of responsible use of digital technology.

DICT-CAR resource speakers led interactive discussions and demonstrations covering AI applications in learning, creativity and access to information, while also addressing online safety and digital risks.

The session sought to make emerging technology more accessible to younger and older users, SM Supermalls said in the release.

Joan Jimenez, who attended with her 10-year-old son, Jacob, said the activity gave children an opportunity to broaden their understanding of AI.

“Yung age ng mga bata ngayon, very common na yung AI. I think magandang opportunity sa kanila ito para ma-broaden yung knowledge nila at ma-experience din kung paano nagwo-work ang AI. I am very thankful kasi ino-open ng SM City Baguio ang mga ganitong opportunities para sa mga kids. I hope na mas marami pang ganitong programs.”

She said: “For children today, AI is already very common. I think this is a good opportunity for them to broaden their knowledge and experience how AI works. I am very thankful that SM City Baguio is opening opportunities like this for kids. I hope there will be more programs like this.”

Jimenez also said the mall provided a safe and accessible venue for children to continue participating in educational activities amid class suspensions and unfavorable weather.

“For us, despite the weather and the suspension of classes, we feel safe here at SM City Baguio while the kids are learning and participating in activities like this.”

Jacob, a Grade 5 student, said his curiosity about AI had led him to explore its uses beyond basic searches and conversations.

“I want to know more about AI because it is futuristic technology. I tried a game where you have to use AI, and I also made an app.”

Senior participants also discussed the importance of digital awareness, particularly in protecting themselves from online scams and other risks.

Cheryl Alquiza, one of the participants, said accounts shared during the session helped highlight potential vulnerabilities faced by older users online.

“We learned so much information, and the experiences shared by someone who was scammed were a big help to us, especially us seniors. Sometimes, we are very vulnerable to scams. Hindi namin alam na puwede ka pala maloko through text and messages lang.”

She said: “We learned so much information, and the experiences shared by someone who was scammed were a big help to us, especially seniors. Sometimes, we are very vulnerable to scams. We did not know that someone could deceive you through text messages and messages alone.”

Alquiza said participants also discussed the need to remain cautious when using digital and financial services.

Engineer Katherine Aguilar of DICT-CAR, who discussed AI during the session, said the participation of children and senior citizens underscored technology’s potential to connect people across age groups.

“Maganda yung ginawa natin kasi from kids to seniors, it only goes to show na yung technology ay walang pinipiling edad. Very inclusive siya.”

She said: “What we did was good because, from kids to seniors, it only shows that technology does not choose an age. It is very inclusive.”

Aguilar also said SM City Baguio could serve as a venue for learning in addition to shopping and entertainment.

The initiative reflects a broader push for digital literacy as AI and other emerging technologies become increasingly integrated into everyday life, according to SM Supermalls.

The release said the program aimed to help participants of different ages become more confident, informed and responsible users of digital technology.