Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. tackles plans to invest over PHP2.6 billion for AI (artificial intelligence) projects in an event in Makati City on Monday (June 9, 2025). He said the investment covers healthcare, education, mobility, environment, disaster risk reduction, and an emerging technology platform. (Screengrab from UNDP Philippines Facebook)
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is set to invest more than PHP2.6 billion in artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives, according to Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.
Speaking at the Philippine launch of the Global Human Development Report 2025 in Makati City, Solidum shared that the DOST has crafted an AI roadmap focused on strengthening facilities and services, building human capital, advancing R&D technologies, and developing supportive science and technology policies.
“To support this roadmap, DOST is earmarking over PHP2.6 billion for AI projects that span across industries including healthcare, education, mobility, environment, disaster risk reduction, and emerging technologies,” he said.
Solidum emphasized that human resource development will be a key focus. This includes capacity building, nurturing AI innovation ecosystems, enhancing online learning platforms, promoting upskilling programs, and forging partnerships with key stakeholders.
He also announced the establishment of a national AI think tank, which will bring together representatives from government, academia, and the private sector to formulate a unified national AI strategy and framework.
The department’s plans align with its existing AI R&D framework (2019–2029), which rests on four foundational pillars: national infrastructure, talent and skills development, research and data, and policy and stakeholder engagement.
“Our commitment is clear—DOST will continue to lead with foresight and collaboration to ensure that AI becomes a tool for national empowerment,” Solidum said.
He noted that the Philippines has already invested PHP1.4 billion in AI research and development from 2018 to 2024, supporting a range of initiatives.
Among these are:
- COARE (Computing and Archiving Research Environment): A high-performance computing facility for data storage and analytics to assist local researchers.
- SkAI-Pinas (Philippine Sky Artificial Intelligence Program): Utilizes big data and remote sensing for sustainable monitoring systems.
- ACER (Accelerated Earthquake Multi-Hazards Mapping and Risk Assessment Program): Aims to expedite disaster risk assessments nationwide.
Solidum also highlighted the AI Pinas Summer School Program and the SPARTA (Smarter Philippines through Data Analytics R&D, Training, and Adoption) program, which have trained over 49,000 Filipinos in AI and data science, helping to build an AI-ready workforce.
Looking ahead, one of the major projects in development is the AI Virtual Hub, envisioned as a national center for emerging AI research, startup support, expert training, and collaborative innovation.
The secretary noted that the country’s AI development efforts are gaining recognition. In the 2024 AI Readiness Index by Oxford Insights, the Philippines improved its global ranking from 65th in 2023 to 56th in 2024.
“This progress reflects our growing ability to use AI for enhancing public service and driving development,” Solidum said.
