Manila: The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) on Monday kicked off this year's Development Policy Research Month (DPRM) with a push for artificial intelligence (AI) rules that reflect the country's realities.
According to Philippines News Agency, PIDS president Dr. Philip Arnold Tua±o emphasized the importance of policy research in providing the necessary guidelines for governments to adopt technology responsibly. He noted that AI is beginning to change decision-making processes, resource allocation, and service delivery.
Tua±o highlighted the potential of AI to make government services faster and more competitive by enabling agencies to optimize their resources. He stressed that AI-driven governance is a shared responsibility that extends beyond policymakers and technologists.
"Researchers must provide solid evidence," Tua±o stated. "Government must act with fairness and foresight." He urged citizens to remain engaged and critical, and called on the media to ensure that discussions on AI reach a broad audience.
PIDS Senior Research Fellow Adoracion Navarro noted that AI data analytics and digital platforms are increasingly being integrated into government systems, offering opportunities for improved services and solutions to key issues. She remarked on the potential for efficiency, transparency, and sustainability through AI.
Navarro explained that efficiency gains can be achieved through streamlined processes, transparency can be improved by reducing corruption, and accountability can be enhanced, all of which require effective and timely government strategies.
University of the Philippines Center for Integrative and Development Studies Professorial Fellow Emmanuel Lallana added that simply integrating AI into existing governance structures is insufficient. He advocated for using AI to deepen democracy, suggesting that the ultimate goal should be the promotion of democratic values.
Lallana recommended addressing the digital infrastructure deficit, promoting AI literacy, and ensuring participatory AI to address democracy concerns related to AI use. PIDS acknowledged the rapid evolution of technology and the consequent need for governmental policies and public dialogue to adapt accordingly.
