Makati City: The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. announced plans to allocate over PHP2.6 billion for artificial intelligence (AI) projects. Speaking at the Philippine Launch of the Global Human Development Report 2025, Solidum outlined the department's AI roadmap, which focuses on facilities, services, human resources, research and development technologies, and science and technology policies.
According to Philippines News Agency, Solidum highlighted that the DOST aims to invest in AI initiatives across several sectors, including industries, healthcare, education, mobility, environment, disaster risk reduction, and emerging technology platforms. The department plans to enhance human resources by focusing on capacity building, AI innovation ecosystems, online learning platforms, upskilling, and partnerships.
Solidum revealed that the DOST is spearheading the formation of a national AI think tank. This body will consist of stakeholders from the government, academe, and private sector to craft a unified national AI strategy and framework. The department's AI R and D framework for 2019-2029 is anchored on national infrastructure, talent and skills development, research and data, and policies and stakeholder engagement.
The DOST has already backed several AI-focused projects, with PHP1.4 billion invested in AI R and D from 2018 to 2024. Key projects include the Computing and Archiving Research Environment (COARE), which provides high-performance computing for data analytics, and the Philippine Sky Artificial Intelligence Program (SkAI-Pinas), which uses remote sensing and big data for sustainable monitoring systems.
Additionally, the Accelerated Earthquake Multi-Hazards Mapping and Risk Assessment Program (ACER) aims to expedite disaster risk assessments nationwide. The AI Pinas Summer School Program and the Smarter Philippines through Data Analytics R and D, Training, and Adoption (SPARTA) program have upskilled over 49,000 Filipinos in data science and AI, preparing the workforce for an AI-driven economy.
In February, the DOST announced plans for an AI Virtual Hub, a national center for emerging AI R and D, supporting startups, collaborations, and expert development. The country's AI efforts are evident as the Philippines improved its ranking in the 2024 AI Readiness Index by Oxford Insights, moving from 65th place in 2023 to 56th in 2024. Solidum noted this as evidence of the nation's growing capability to utilize AI for public service and development.
