DOST Launches National AI Strategy Conference

In a landmark gathering that signals a new chapter for the nation’s technological future, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) today inaugurated the National AI Stakeholders’ Conference, formally launching a whole-of-nation drive to build a unified and collaborative Artificial Intelligence (AI) ecosystem in the Philippines.

Held at the historic Manila Hotel Centennial Hall, the two-day conference brings together a powerful coalition of government leaders, industry titans, academic pioneers, dynamic startups, and international partners. The event serves as the official catalyst for the operationalization of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy of the Philippines (NAIS-PH), a visionary blueprint approved by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in May 2025.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. set an ambitious tone for the conference, outlining a future where AI is deeply integrated into the fabric of Philippine society. “AI technologies are no longer a distant promise; they are a present reality, already enhancing our transport systems, financial services, and creative industries. They are improving energy management, strengthening environmental monitoring, and bolstering public safety,” Secretary Solidum stated in his keynote address.

“By 2028,” he declared, “we envision a New Philippines powered by AI—one where innovation is inclusive, governance is smarter, and communities are empowered. This is the heart of our Bagong Pilipinas.”

The NAIS-PH strategy is structured around five critical drivers designed to ensure the country’s AI development is holistic and sustainable:

1. Infrastructure: Building the high-performance computing and data infrastructure necessary for advanced AI research and deployment.
2. Workforce: Developing a robust talent pipeline through education and upskilling programs to create an AI-ready citizenry.
3. Innovation: Fostering a vibrant ecosystem for AI research, development, and commercialization, particularly for startups and SMEs.
4. Data Governance and Policy: Establishing ethical, secure, and inclusive frameworks for data use and AI application.
5. Deployment: Accelerating the adoption of AI solutions across government services and key economic sectors.

Secretary Solidum highlighted that the push for AI is not a new initiative but the culmination of years of strategic groundwork. Since 2017, DOST, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Department of Education (DepEd), and other agencies, has been laying the foundation. Key programs include the DOST Summer School for AI for researcher training, the acquisition of the country’s first National High-Performance Computing Grid, and the funding of numerous AI R&D projects through the DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD).

The conference moved beyond vision statements to showcase concrete progress. A significant highlight was the launch of sector-specific AI Roadmaps developed by DOST and DTI, which provide a clear, actionable plan for the country’s AI direction in areas like manufacturing, agriculture, and services.

Furthermore, Secretary Solidum revealed a powerful indicator of growing confidence in the Philippine tech scene: “Investments in AI in the Philippines have now reached over ₱2.3 billion across 113 AI-related projects.” He emphasized, “This is a testament to our belief in the Filipino mind’s ability not only to adopt but to create and lead in technology.”

The National AI Stakeholders’ Conference marks a decisive step from planning to action. Through the NAIS-PH, the DOST affirms its commitment to a future where science, technology, and innovation are the primary engines for a Bagong Pilipinas—a nation where progress is driven by knowledge, collaboration, and the boundless creative potential of every Filipino.

The DOST is the premier science and technology body in the Philippines responsible for coordinating and financing scientific and technological research and development. It is committed to pushing the frontiers of innovation to address national issues and improve the quality of life for all Filipinos.#