The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
The Department of Science and Technology – Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) is pushing forward an ambitious plan to build a robust, inclusive, and people-centered artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem in the Philippines.
Speaking at a press conference in Quezon City, DOST-ASTI Director Franz de Leon outlined the agency’s roadmap to boost AI development nationwide, starting with the launch of the Nexus of AI Research and Applications (NAIRA) initiative last month.
“NAIRA aims to give users—especially government agencies, MSMEs, and researchers—access to AI tools and platforms, while also fostering collaboration,” de Leon said.
The multi-year program, running from 2025 through 2029, will train over 600 individuals in AI fundamentals, targeting participants from academia, the public sector, and private industry. The initiative will also include workshops, mentorships, and regional training sessions in partnership with universities and innovation hubs.
Key sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and governance will benefit from co-developed AI tools under NAIRA, with a strong focus on local relevance and ethical use.
“DOST’s role is to ensure AI systems are ethically guided and socially impactful, especially in improving government services and supporting small businesses,” de Leon emphasized.
A major component of the plan is the launch of the “AI as a Service” (AlaaS) platform by 2025, which will provide users with access to AI models, tools, and infrastructure. The platform’s capabilities are expected to grow by 2027–2028, incorporating more datasets and advanced models for improved public sector efficiency.
By that time, DOST-ASTI also aims to begin commercializing AI tools and expanding partnerships with local industries and global collaborators. The ultimate goal is to establish a self-sustaining AI ecosystem by 2029 through licensing, commercialization, and continuous technological innovation.
“We will integrate advanced technologies, including generative AI and large language models, to enhance the platform,” de Leon added, noting that the agency also plans to keep AI training programs current and accessible to disadvantaged and remote communities.
“We want to empower the workforce with future-ready skills and ensure that no community is left behind in this digital transformation,” he said.