LAUNCH OF AI ROADMAP, CENTER FOR AI RESEARCH TO UNLOCK NEW OPPORTUNITIES IN PH DIGITAL ECONOMY – NEDA - Department of Economy, Planning, and Development

Last modified on July 4, 2024

JULY 4, 2024 – The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) sees new opportunities in the digital economy following the launch of a strategy roadmap and a research center that will harness the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and support the country’s social and economic transformation.

With the aim of propelling the Philippines toward becoming a regional frontrunner in AI utilization, the Department of Trade and Industry launched the AI Strategy Roadmap 2.0 on Wednesday, July 3. NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan underscored the critical role of this roadmap and the Center for AI Research (CAIR) in achieving this ambitious goal.

“The National AI Strategy Roadmap 2.0 will strengthen the government’s capacity for sustainable digital transformation, stimulate local innovation and entrepreneurship while enabling unprecedented opportunities in the digital economy. The roadmap aligns with the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023-2028, emphasizing the transformative potential of emerging technologies in job creation and socioeconomic transformation,” said Balisacan.

The roadmap advocates from the adoption of cutting-edge technological advancements, including Generative AI. CAIR aims to position the Philippines as a leader in multiple AI application areas by fostering technological innovation and multidisciplinary and cross-disciplinary research. It also prioritizes the development of full-time research scientists, engineers, and R&D personnel.

The NEDA Secretary added that AI is poised to invigorate critical growth sectors, such as the creative and software development industries, along with other higher value-added services. In addition, he noted that by implementing the AI Roadmap 2.0 and establishing the CAIR, the government can help ensure the smooth transition of the economy and the Philippine workforce to this critical technology. He said that initiatives must support displaced workers through upskilling, reskilling, and training.

To fully leverage AI for economic growth, Balisacan reiterated the need to bolster the nation’s digital infrastructure through the passage of the Konektadong Pinoy Bill. This bill aims to provide affordable Internet access by enhancing market accessibility, upgrading physical and digital infrastructure, and enabling full participation of individuals and businesses in the digital economy.

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