TLDR: Saint Louis University (SLU) recently participated in the Season of Creation 2025, hosting an ecumenical service and forum that focused on the critical intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the safeguarding of Indigenous Peoples’ intellectual property rights. The event featured insights from SLU’s Chief Information Technology Officer, Cecilia Mercado, PhD, who highlighted the ethical considerations and opportunities AI presents in this evolving landscape.
Baguio City, Philippines – Saint Louis University (SLU) concluded its participation in the Season of Creation 2025 with a significant ecumenical service and forum held at the CRC Hall, Bishop’s House Compound, on October 6, 2025. The event brought to the forefront a crucial contemporary issue: the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in supporting the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, particularly their intellectual property.
The forum was spearheaded by Cecilia Mercado, PhD, SLU’s Chief Information Technology Officer and Data Protection Officer. Dr. Mercado delivered insightful perspectives on AI ethics, indigenous data sovereignty, and the moral imperatives of inclusive technology governance. Her presentation underscored both the potential risks and opportunities that emerging technologies, specifically AI, introduce to traditional knowledge systems and cultural heritage.
A central theme of the discussion revolved around the idea that “Technology shouldn’t take away identity; it should protect it,” a powerful statement attributed to Dr. Mercado. This emphasizes the need for AI development and implementation to be guided by principles that respect and uphold the unique identities and cultural expressions of indigenous communities.
The forum brought attention to three important areas of advocacy:
Protecting indigenous data sovereignty and intellectual property rights in the digital era.
Amplifying indigenous voices in shaping equitable and culturally aware AI systems.
Ensuring participation of indigenous peoples in the development and governance of technology.
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The event served as a vital platform for dialogue, emphasizing that the wisdom and voices of indigenous peoples must be at the heart of AI’s growth to ensure that technological progress serves humanity equitably and respectfully.
