Venerable Juewei Visits Bacolod: A Heartfelt Dialogue Between Humanistic Buddhism and AI

Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple

On December 29–30, 2025, Venerable Juewei, Director of Buddhist Studies and Humanistic Buddhism at Nan Tien Institute in Australia, visited Yuan Tong Temple in Bacolod, Philippines for a series of inspiring talks. The first lecture, “Humanistic Buddhism in a Global Perspective: Responding to the Risks and Challenges of Artificial Intelligence, and Life at Nan Tien Institute”, brought together nearly forty participants eager to explore the intersection of mindfulness, community, and technology.

During the lecture, Venerable Juewei shared the concept of “attention ecology”, encouraging everyone to view attention not as a commodity to be consumed, but as a practice that nourishes the mind and heart. She emphasized the importance of community and mutual support in our increasingly digital lives.

Attendees shared how the talk helped them reflect on the role of AI in daily life, and how mindfulness can help them navigate the constant demands of technology. One participant mentioned how the idea of “attention ecology” reminded them to bring their hearts back to the present, even amidst social media and digital distractions.

Alumni and students from Nan Tien Institute—Dr. Manikan, Dr. Prino, and current student Mr. Arayacak—joined the discussion, adding personal insights. Mr. Arayacak also performed a moving rendition of “The Eightfold Path”, touching the hearts of everyone in the room and creating a moment of collective reflection and calm.

The event was co-hosted by Venerable Miaojing of Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple and the Fo Guang Shan International Association Bacolod Chapter, with full support from Venerable Yong guang,  Head Abbot of the Philippines. Through this gathering, the community experienced the warmth and practical wisdom of Humanistic Buddhism, seeing firsthand how Buddhist teachings can guide us to live mindfully, connect with others, and respond to modern challenges with compassion and insight.

This wasn’t just a lecture—it was a meeting of hearts, a shared reflection, and a hopeful glimpse into a future where mindfulness, community, and technology can coexist harmoniously.