When the Algorithm Takes Over: A Phenomenological Study on Filipino Virtual Assistants Confronting AI-Induced Work Erosion.

Document Types

Paper Presentation

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Computer and Software Technology, and Robotics (CSR)

School Name

Mindanao State University- Senior High Department CETD

Track or Strand

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Dizon, Yancy, D.

Start Date

25-6-2026 10:30 AM

End Date

25-6-2026 12:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

Online - https://zoom.us/j/91936856247?pwd=oCMfMsh44I2wb0dYsEgoInDJy59bOq.1 Meeting ID: 919 3685 6247 | Passcode: research

Abstract/Executive Summary

Filipino virtual assistants (VAs) form a vital pillar of the nation's digital workforce, providing creative and administrative services to the global economy. The rapid integration of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), however, now presents a significant threat to their livelihoods. This study explored the lived experiences of four Filipino VAs in the content generation sector who have undergone AI-induced work erosion. Using a phenomenological approach with in-depth interviews, the research identified the core mechanisms of work erosion, the participants' emotional responses, and the resulting shifts in their professional identities. The findings reveal that work erosion is primarily experienced as a partial displacement through income erosion and task automation, rather than direct termination. Participants reported a complex emotional duality, balancing the stress of adaptation with a practical acceptance of AI as both a threat and a necessary partner. In response, they adopted strategies of continuous upskilling while redefining their professional value from content creators to human auditors of AI output. These findings suggest that AI pre-existing uncertainty but also forces a resilient evolution of the VA's role toward more strategic, supervisory functions.

Keywords

AI-induced work erosion, virtual assistants, phenomenology, generative AI, future of work

Statement of Originality

yes

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Jun 25th, 10:30 AM Jun 25th, 12:00 PM

When the Algorithm Takes Over: A Phenomenological Study on Filipino Virtual Assistants Confronting AI-Induced Work Erosion.

Filipino virtual assistants (VAs) form a vital pillar of the nation's digital workforce, providing creative and administrative services to the global economy. The rapid integration of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), however, now presents a significant threat to their livelihoods. This study explored the lived experiences of four Filipino VAs in the content generation sector who have undergone AI-induced work erosion. Using a phenomenological approach with in-depth interviews, the research identified the core mechanisms of work erosion, the participants' emotional responses, and the resulting shifts in their professional identities. The findings reveal that work erosion is primarily experienced as a partial displacement through income erosion and task automation, rather than direct termination. Participants reported a complex emotional duality, balancing the stress of adaptation with a practical acceptance of AI as both a threat and a necessary partner. In response, they adopted strategies of continuous upskilling while redefining their professional value from content creators to human auditors of AI output. These findings suggest that AI pre-existing uncertainty but also forces a resilient evolution of the VA's role toward more strategic, supervisory functions.

https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2026/BoA_CSR/4