Gov’t forms think tank to study AI adoption, future policies

By Filane Mikee Cervantes, Philippine News Agency

NEDA Secretary and NIC Vice Chairperson Arsenio Balisacan stressed the importance of a coordinated national approach to AI, particularly how such technologies can be contextualized within the Philippine setting. (PCO file photo)

MANILA – The National Innovation Council (NIC) has approved the formation of a technical working group to assess the capabilities, current ecosystem, and future trajectories of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

According to a news release on Friday, the NIC approved the initiative during its eighth council meeting on March 26.

The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said the think tank will conduct comprehensive studies on the country’s AI preparedness and adoption.

This initiative, NEDA said, aims to inform the government’s formulation of AI policies.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will lead the group, which will include experts from industry, academe, and government.

NEDA Secretary and NIC Vice Chairperson Arsenio Balisacan stressed the importance of a coordinated national approach to AI, particularly how such technologies can be contextualized within the Philippine setting.

“If we want to harness the potential of AI, we urgently need a national approach and policy that will ensure alignment and collaboration between public and private sector efforts,” Balisacan said. “More importantly, we must ensure that the Filipino workforce is adequately prepared to upskill and transition efficiently to these AI developments.”

A 2023 study by Google and Access Partnership highlighted AI’s potential economic impact, estimating that AI adoption and the development of essential digital skills could generate PHP2.8 trillion in annual economic value for the Philippines by 2030.

In addition to forming the AI think tank, the NIC approved new implementing guidelines for the 2025 Innovation Grants.

These guidelines detail the types of innovation programs eligible for grants and set forth the criteria and requirements.

Since 2022, the NIC has supported sectors including agriculture, health, energy, education, defense, transportation, and public administration through these grants.

The new guidelines will be released by NEDA in the second quarter, followed by a call for proposals for the 2025 Innovation Grants.

Balisacan said these developments aim to boost innovation in the country.

“Much work still needs to be done, and the establishment of the AI technical group, along with the release of the new implementing guidelines for the 2025 Innovation Grants, mark a significant step forward in enhancing and developing the country’s innovation ecosystem,” he said.

These initiatives align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for a comprehensive approach to innovation, aiming for a more prosperous and resilient future for all Filipinos.