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According to the World Bank’s latest report, transforming Philippine agriculture into a dynamic, high-growth environment is crucial for the country’s recovery, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth. Tansforming the country’s farming and food systems are important during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure strong food value chains, affordable and nutritious food, and a vibrant rural economy. Initiatives are being implemented in the Philippines to improve the agricultural landscape of the country, most importantly for global food security and environmental sustainability.
The Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD) has recently introduced a patent mining scheme for selected commodities in order to influence changes in research and development (R&D) and technology transfer prioritisation in the agriculture, aquatic, and natural resources (AANR) sector.
The “Patent Mining Program for Selected AANR Commodities through Strengthened IP-TBM Offices” includes 17 state universities and colleges (SUCs) and research and development institutes that are participating (RDIs). The program will discover emerging agricultural technologies and influence the development of priority R&D programs through patent mining. These tools may help advocate changes in R&D and technology transfer and in crafting new science and technology (S&T) plans for the AANR sector.
Through patent landscaping and mining, the programme will also harness and strengthen the capacities of IP-TBM offices, discover emerging agri-aqua technological trends and recommend priority R&D programmes, and develop or improve the IP policies and technology transfer protocols of other SUCs to align IP management and technology transfer activities, and develop a web-based management information system for the real-time monitoring of IP filings of the IP-TBM network.
With the completion of the IP-TBM network in IP management and technology commercialisation, this programme will continue such initiatives by targeting to file 170 IP applications and execute 17 commercialisation contracts over the course of the two-year project.
Linkages with various agencies will also be enhanced to support activities on IP protection and management, as well as technology transfer and commercialization. Moreover, the programme will also develop a real-time monitoring system that will allow efficient and effective monitoring of all activities and accomplishments of members of the IP-TBM network.
To offset the costs of future catastrophic weather events, the government is rapidly expanding its crop insurance scheme through the Department of Agriculture’s food self-sufficiency programme. Overseen by the state-owned Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC), coverage is available to farmers of rice, corn, fisheries, livestock, high-value commercial crops, coconut, and non-crop assets.
Recently, other initiatives were carried out in the agriculture sector in terms of producing high-quality rice by using the machine. OpenGov Asia reported, the Agricultural Training Institute in Central Luzon (ATI-CL) continues to train and provide farmers in Central Luzon with the capability to maximise the use of social media in marketing their crops and learning different smartphone Agri-applications.
Under the Rice Mechanisation Program of the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), the Local Riding-Type Rice Transplanter was developed to make planting rice easier for the farmers. The machine uses a technology that enables farmers to transplant rice seedlings with high capacity and convenience of operation. It works as a 4-wheel drive ride-type transplanter that is easier to manoeuvre that can conveniently be driven even on muddy soil.
Investment in agricultural research and development (R&D) by the government is important for global food security and environmental sustainability. Despite the fact that public agricultural R&D projects have high economic returns, they are characterised by long time horizons and temporal lags.
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Singapore’s Minister Josephine Teo recently addressed the Singapore Conference on Artificial Intelligence, emphasising the nation’s commitment to learning, contributing, and posing critical questions in the realm of AI. Drawing parallels to Singapore’s historical challenges, the Minister highlighted the significance of seeking answers collaboratively.
Minister Josephine reflected on Singapore’s journey as an independent nation, underscoring the importance of seeking wise counsel from international experts. Notably, she mentioned Dr Albert Winsemius, who played a pivotal role as Singapore’s Chief Economic Advisor, advising the nation to focus on attracting foreign investments—a decision that propelled Singapore into an industrial powerhouse.
While acknowledging the value of global advice, Minister Josephine stressed a crucial difference in Singapore’s approach to AI. The nation aims not only to learn from the world but also to contribute significantly. The Singapore Conference on Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) serves as a platform to foster international collaboration—a brain trust where experts and thought leaders can share knowledge and ideas.
Minister Josephine drew attention to Singapore’s water story, highlighting the nation’s innovative solutions to address its existential water challenge. Through technologies like membrane filtration and desalination, Singapore transformed from heavily relying on imported water to producing “NEWater,” now supplying 40% of the country’s water needs.
Besides, Singapore freely shares its water management expertise through events like the Singapore International Water Week, showcasing the nation’s commitment to addressing global challenges collaboratively.
While acknowledging AI as a general-purpose technology, Minister Josephine recognised its potential for both positive and negative impacts. She outlined the commendable applications of AI, such as drug discovery and personalised learning, but also stressed the risks, including biases, cybercrime, and potential societal disruptions. Minister Josephine reiterated Singapore’s commitment to embracing AI innovations while confronting associated risks.
Drawing inspiration from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Minister Josephine proposed a holistic, system-oriented approach to addressing AI’s challenges and opportunities. Much like TCM practitioners aim for holistic health, SCAI adopts a systems-oriented perspective to identify strategic points for focused efforts in the AI landscape.
Minister Josephine also highlighted SCAI’s goal of identifying critical questions in AI that, if systematically answered, can enable AI to serve the global good. She drew parallels to a talk by Dr Lydia Liu, emphasising the need to move beyond theoretical fairness criteria in AI to consider system dynamics and interaction effects for practical impact.
In its pursuit of AI development, Singapore aims to create a new equilibrium by focusing on specific outcomes, measuring progress, and addressing both risks and opportunities. The SCAI conference serves as an experiment, bringing together diverse perspectives from 16 countries and various sectors to form an international brain trust for AI.
Minister Josephine expressed hope that SCAI would contribute to international cooperation on AI, forging connections and friendships to address complex AI issues collectively. Singapore’s unique approach and diverse participation underscore its dedication to fostering a global brain trust to navigate the intricate landscape of AI for the global good.
As AI technologies continue to advance, their potential to address global challenges, such as healthcare, poverty, and climate change, becomes increasingly evident. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding is essential to leverage AI for the betterment of humanity while mitigating potential negative consequences.
The ethical dimensions of AI development and deployment are significant considerations. An understanding of AI for the global good facilitates the creation of ethical frameworks and guidelines, ensuring responsible and fair use of these technologies. This approach emphasises the importance of ethical considerations in harnessing the power of AI to benefit societies worldwide.
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The Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR) and DEFTA Partners (DEFTA) announced a strategic collaboration aimed at advancing technology transfer and the commercialisation of advanced research in eye and vision health. This collaborative initiative, marked by a signing ceremony at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) campus, brings together the expertise of CEVR and the extensive business network of DEFTA, with the goal of fostering innovation and translating research outcomes into globally impactful products.
Under the leadership of the Chairman of the CEVR Board of Directors and Deputy President/Provost of PolyU, and the Director of Investment Research and Deputy Head of DEFTA, the collaboration is set to leverage DEFTA’s track record in identifying and nurturing technology-based startups.

The partnership envisions a seamless integration of DEFTA’s business network with CEVR’s research achievements to facilitate the commercialisation of university-originated research. Through strategic alliances with Japanese companies, facilitated by DEFTA, CEVR aims to propel the translation and commercialisation of groundbreaking research outcomes, contributing to the advancement of eye and vision health solutions on a global scale.
The Chairman of the CEVR Board of Directors expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting the significant opportunities it presents for CEVR. He emphasised DEFTA’s crucial role in driving the commercialisation of research projects and enabling global expansion. The Chairman said he looks forward to a close working relationship with the DEFTA team to achieve shared goals, bringing innovation to fruition and enhancing eye health worldwide.
Meanwhile, the Director of Investment Research and Deputy Head of DEFTA underscored the synergy between The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the University of Waterloo in Canada, along with the strong support from the Hong Kong SAR Government, as key factors contributing to CEVR’s research capabilities. She noted that DEFTA’s robust network with industrial corporates and extensive experience will secure more collaboration opportunities and resources for CEVR’s projects. The Director expressed confidence in DEFTA’s ability to foster innovation and create opportunities in the field of eye and vision research.
The signing ceremony, witnessed by PolyU’s President; the Consul-General of Japan in Hong Kong; and the Group Chairman and CEO at DEFTA Partners, symbolised the formalisation of the collaboration. This strategic partnership marks a milestone in the efforts to address urgent needs and challenges in global eye and vision health.
In embracing this collaboration, CEVR anticipates an expansion of its partner network, enabling the research centre to undertake more innovative and cutting-edge projects. The collaboration is poised to create a platform for CEVR to address critical issues in the field, ultimately contributing to advancements in global eye and vision health. As CEVR and DEFTA embark on this collaborative journey, the combined expertise and resources are expected to drive impactful changes in the landscape of eye and vision research.
The strategic collaboration between the Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR) and DEFTA Partners marks a significant step forward in advancing the translation of cutting-edge research in eye and vision health into tangible, real-world solutions.
The formalised partnership, celebrated at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), brings together the academic prowess of CEVR and the business acumen of DEFTA, setting the stage for innovative advancements in the field. With a shared vision of promoting technology transfer and commercialisation, this collaboration holds the promise of not only addressing urgent global needs in eye health but also fostering a collaborative environment that can lead to groundbreaking developments.
As CEVR and DEFTA combine their strengths, we anticipate witnessing transformative changes that will positively impact eye and vision health on a global scale. This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration between academia and industry, showcasing a commitment to driving positive change and improving lives through cutting-edge research and innovation.
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Creating a smart city for the nation requires a collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including government bodies, private enterprises, technology innovators, and, most importantly, citizens. The development and implementation of smart city initiatives demand a synchronised approach to urban planning, technology integration, and sustainable practices.

To achieve this, Thailand should emphasise enhancing intelligent public infrastructure, encompassing transportation, energy, and water systems. Additionally, efforts would be directed towards improving the workforce’s skills through digital training and establishing connections between Thai cities and global innovation networks to encourage investments and attract skilled individuals. Thailand has been making noteworthy progress in its cooperative initiatives to advance its smart city aspirations, propelled by a unified dedication among diverse stakeholders.
Thailand serves as a pivotal platform for showcasing strategies and insights to drive urban space transformation. Dr Kitti Satjawattana, Director of the Capital Administration and Management Unit (BMTA), shared insights into the collaborative approach, emphasising the crucial role of coordination among network partners at various levels.
One of the telecommunications companies in Thailand has also joined forces with network partners to establish the “Thailand Smart City Network Partners,” marking a significant stride in advancing the development of livable and smart cities in Thailand. This collaborative initiative is poised to align with the distinct needs and aspirations outlined in the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan.
Further, Dr Kitti highlighted the strategic coordination with network partners at various levels, including policy influencers such as the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDB), Office of the Science Promotion Board Research and Innovation (NRCT), Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), and the World Bank. The collaboration extends to university networks, such as Mahasarakham University, Prince of Songkla University, Khon Kaen University, Naresuan University, Chulalongkorn University, Kasetsart University, Burapha University, Chiang Mai University, and King Mongkut’s University of Technology Ladkrabang. It also encompasses several private sector partners to foster this initiative.

The approach involves creating tangible cooperation to propel livable cities’ strategy from formulation to practical implementation, aptly termed “Policy in Action.” To institutionalise this effort, network partners across various levels have collaboratively established the “Smart City Alliance Thailand.” The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMTA) role within this alliance is pivotal, offering support for the academic processes essential for driving research plans focused on developing livable central and smart cities. The ultimate goal is to elevate the economic landscape while addressing issues of inequality within the country.
The alliance is committed to supporting the knowledge base and tools essential for managing entire city systems, bringing together academics, experts, and relevant organisations. Dr Kitti emphasised the importance of involving stakeholders from academic institutions, government agencies, civil society, the community sector, the private sector, and other related partners in the development process. They aim to create and promote policy proposals related to the research-driven development of livable central and smart cities.
Dr Poon Thiangburanatham, Deputy Director of Organisational Planning and Strategy at BMTA, provided further insights into the initiative. The datasets generated through research and innovation will form a robust foundation for developing a comprehensive smart city across seven dimensions. These include smart energy management, smart environmental management, smart mobility, smart economic opportunities, smart people development, smart living convenience and safety, and smart governance with transparent management. The collaborative approach ensures that the smart city’s holistic development addresses diverse urban living and governance aspects.
This collaboration will impact Thailand’s smart city initiatives, integrating research, innovation, and multi-stakeholder cooperation. The alliance aims to enhance citizens’ quality of life and happiness by fostering sustainable and technology-driven urban environments, keeping with the objectives outlined in the 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027).
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A Digital Roadmap for Economic Recovery is pivotal in the contemporary landscape, offering multifaceted benefits. It ensures technological resilience by equipping nations with advanced tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and IoT, fostering efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing global competitiveness.
Experts and business executives believe that the digital economy’s revitalisation and the merging of digital and physical industries will be crucial factors in propelling China’s economic recovery. Hailed as the leading edge of industrial development, the digital economy is now a crucial component of China’s development plan.
Tech companies are being strongly advised to invest in cutting-edge technology, conduct fundamental research, and investigate strategically important but future-focused areas. The main goal is obvious: strengthen technical innovation capacities to bring in a new phase of development and modernise established sectors.
The need to foster new momentum and advance traditional sectors is at the top of China’s development agenda. This need highlights the significance of the Central Economic Work Conference, which is coming up soon. This important gathering usually establishes the priorities for economic development and sets the tone for macroeconomic policy for the coming year.
Wu Hequan, an academic at the Chinese Academy of Engineering, notes that “innovative digital technologies like 5G, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the internet of things are weaving their magic across diverse industries, from manufacturing to agriculture, and hastening integration with the tangible economy.”
He highlights that fostering the digital economy is essential to gain a competitive edge, accelerate digital transformation, modernise established sectors, and efficiently support the tangible economy.
China’s digital economy soared to 50.2 trillion yuan (S$7.01 trillion) in 2022, securing its position as the world’s second-largest digital economy, constituting 41.5% of its GDP, as the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology reported.
China has outlined a strategic plan that includes concrete measures for building data resource systems and digital infrastructure. The State Council and the Central Committee of China jointly announced a plan that highlights the commitment to further integrating digital technology into the country’s politics, economy, society, culture, and ecology.
The head of the China Society of Industrial Economics, Jiang Xiaojuan, emphasised that traditional industries will be the primary arena for the emergence of the digital economy. She stressed how important it is to build a market system for data elements and discover hidden value in large data sets.
Further, platform enterprises are the pivotal figures in this digital transformation. Given China’s position as the world’s largest online consumer market and its extensive digital infrastructure, capitalising on these platforms has become critical for economic growth.
The National Data Administration pledges to share notable investment cases with other government agencies, bolstering support for these businesses to play a more dynamic role in propelling the digital economy.
This strategic approach generates employment opportunities in emerging fields, necessitates skill development, and encourages economic diversification by fostering the growth of digital industries alongside traditional sectors.
Additionally, the digital roadmap facilitates informed decision-making through a data-driven approach, enhances connectivity domestically and internationally, and promotes sustainable development practices. As consumer behaviours evolve, the strategy adapts businesses to changing preferences, making e-commerce and digital services essential components.
From a governance perspective, digitalisation streamlines processes, contributing to a business-friendly environment and fostering economic growth. In essence, this comprehensive approach not only addresses current challenges but positions nations to thrive in the evolving digital age.
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The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and a leading provider of energy-efficient computing solutions for smart vehicles have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to create a ‘Technology Innovation R&D Center’ at the Hong Kong Science Park.

The partnering company plans to invest around HK$3 billion by the end of 2028 and aims to expand its research and development team to approximately 100 personnel. The collaboration, overseen by the ITIB and the OASES, is dedicated to advancing Hong Kong’s microelectronics and intelligent driving ecosystem.
The MoU signing ceremony involved the Chief Corporate Development Officer of HKSTP and the Co-founder and Chief Operation Officer of the technology firm. The event was witnessed by key figures such as the Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry; the Director-General of the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises; the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry; the Chairman of HKSTP; and the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the partnering firm.
The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry highlighted the influx of new energy and intelligent vehicle enterprises in Hong Kong, emphasising the positive impact on relevant ecosystems. He acknowledged the partner firm’s establishment of an international R&D centre at Hong Kong Science Park as leveraging the city as a platform for globalisation. The Chairman of HKSTP, expressed the significance of the partner firm’s presence, contributing to the long-term diversification of Hong Kong’s economy.
The Founder and CEO of the partnering company, expressed delight in collaborating with HKSTP, emphasising the ideal business and R&D environment provided by the Hong Kong Science Park. The partnering company aims to use the Technology Innovation R&D Center to accelerate the development of automated driving computing solutions, benefiting Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area’s smart vehicle ecosystem.
The “Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint” supports Hong Kong’s goal to become an international I&T centre, with a focus on the microelectronics industry. The establishment of the “Hong Kong Microelectronics Research and Development Institute” was announced in the 2023 Policy Address to drive collaboration and create an enabling environment for microelectronics industry advancement.
The partnering company is a leading provider of energy-efficient computing solutions for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving (AD), is committed to enhancing next-generation driving experiences. The company collaborates with a wide network of partners, offering products and services to accelerate the transformation of smart electric vehicles. Their Founder and CEO is a renowned expert in machine learning, with the company holding nearly 2,000 patents and collaborating with major automobile companies globally.
HKSTP remains dedicated to advancing Hong Kong’s new industrialisation mission, boasting a microelectronics ecosystem with nearly 250 companies. Five Hong Kong universities rank among the top 100 globally, with over 100 researchers engaged in microelectronics research. HKSTP provides comprehensive microelectronics hardware infrastructure to support design, prototyping, and pilot production processes.
The collaborative efforts between the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and the partnering firm signify a pivotal step towards advancing Hong Kong’s standing in the global microelectronics and intelligent driving landscape.
With the establishment of the ‘Technology Innovation R&D Center’ at the Hong Kong Science Park, the partnering firm brings substantial investment and expertise to fuel the city’s economic diversification. The commitment to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and leveraging the international I&T centre status reflects a strategic alignment with Hong Kong’s broader goals.
As the microelectronics ecosystem at HKSTP continues to flourish, this collaboration sets the stage for groundbreaking developments in automated driving computing solutions, contributing significantly to the smart vehicle ecosystem in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. Together, HKSTP and their partnering company exemplify the synergy necessary for propelling Hong Kong’s technological prowess into a new era of growth and global competitiveness.
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The principle of inclusivity is key to ensuring the rapid progress of the digital economy can anticipate new challenges and narrow existing gaps. For instance, generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) can add up to US$4.4 Trillion. Of course, this added value will materialise for the global economy every year when well-regulated. Therefore, a synergistic strategy is needed at the worldwide level to align the pace of technological growth with each country’s readiness and digital capacity.
Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communication and Information, Mira Tayyiba, emphasised that Indonesia can seriously address the implementation of a vision and a global economic strategy that is inclusive and sustainable. In this context, Mira identified three main elements that serve as the foundation for Indonesia’s approach to the global economy:
- The centrality of human aspects, emphasised as “human-centricity,” demonstrates Indonesia’s commitment to ensuring that economic development provides material benefits and enhances the well-being and justice of the entire society.
- The commitment to coexist and collectively create a fair playing field underscores the importance of cooperation and equality in creating a fair economic environment.
- Mira Tayyiba highlighted the need for fair and equal opportunities for everyone to develop, creating a foundation that stimulates inclusive and sustainable growth.

By focusing on implementing inclusive and sustainable principles in the context of the digital economy, Indonesia declares its determination to be an active global player in the digital realm and a pioneer in creating an economic model that benefits all layers of society.
Regarding the first element, Mira emphasised that digital technology needs to be developed by considering its latest aspects and respecting human values and diversity.
Further, she provided examples of cases such as misinformation and disinformation produced by AI that caused socio-political turmoil. The biased facial recognition software against certain social groups also led to wrongful arrests by authorities. “All of these serve as a reminder that the development of digital technology must prioritise the centrality of human aspects,” she emphasised.
The second element relates to collaborative solutions between developed and developing countries, technology producers and users, and global technology companies and local industry players. Collaborations are crucial, considering the rapid progress of technology can create economic imbalances that may pose new problems for developing countries.
The third element, related to fair and equal opportunities for all layers of society to thrive in the digital era, is essential in building the future of an inclusive and sustainable digital economy. Mira explained a series of efforts and concrete steps considered necessary for all countries to face the dynamics of the digital era. One key aspect raised is the provision of digital connectivity that is not only accessible to all layers of society but also affordable and adequate. In facing global challenges in the digital economy, equal access to digital connectivity is the main foundation to ensure that all segments of society can feel the benefits of the digital revolution.
Additionally, Mira highlighted the importance of facilitating literacy and digital skills training. Recognising that digital transformation is not only related to physical infrastructure but also requires mastery of relevant digital skills, the Ministry of Communication and Information proposed the need for support for training programmes to enhance digital literacy among the public. This includes not only the use of hardware and software but also a deep understanding of the impact of digitisation on various aspects of life.
The importance of addressing the threat of technology misuse also becomes a focus in the view of the Ministry of Communication and Information. In efforts to create a safe digital ecosystem, protecting the public from the potential misuse or exploitation of technology is a top priority. This includes efforts to ensure that existing regulations and policies can effectively address new challenges that emerge with technological advancements.
Several international organisations focused on economic development, and leaders from the private sector convened at a meeting to exchange perspectives on guaranteeing a digital economy that is accessible to all. “Ensuring an inclusive process in the global digital strategy is crucial, and this strategy must be able to withstand the existing dynamics,” emphasised Rebecca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
In an era where digital transformation is increasingly dominating, Indonesia sees it as essential to take a proactive role in ensuring that the entire population can enjoy the positive impacts of digital economic growth, ensuring that no one is left behind in the fourth industrial revolution era.
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In a resounding testament to the strides being made in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), Director Franz A de Leon, PhD, of the Department of Science and Technology-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) assumed a pivotal role at the AI Asia Expo – Philippines 2023 and Industrial Digital Transformation Congress. The event emerged as a collaborative platform, bringing together high-level officials, industry executives, and experts to deliberate on the responsible integration of AI across diverse sectors.

Dr Franz illuminated the immense potential for growth and innovation in AI within the Philippines. During this strategic gathering, discussions reverberated around crucial topics such as ethics, governance, and the transformative impact of AI on industries, all geared towards contributing to the nation’s economic development.
The Director’s emphasis on fostering an ecosystem valuing research, creativity, and ethical AI implementation underscored a commitment to positioning the Philippines not merely as a consumer but as an innovator within the broader Asian AI landscape.
Addressing the challenges of AI adoption, Dr Franz underscored the necessity of collaboration with partner organisations and stakeholders in government, academia, and industry. This collaborative spirit ensures that the breakthroughs in AI research seamlessly transition into practical applications, bridging the gap between theoretical exploration and tangible impact.
The commitment to democratising AI access took centre stage in Dr Franz’s discourse. Recognising the transformative power of AI for national development, he highlighted its potential to enhance public services, ensure equitable access, and improve citizens’ interactions with the government. By democratising access to AI, the DOST-ASTI aims to make cutting-edge technology accessible to all, fostering innovation and broadening AI’s positive impact across the country.
Further exemplifying its commitment to regional collaboration and innovation, DOST-ASTI partnered with the Philippine Statistics Authority Regional Statistical Services Office in MIMAROPA. At the 2nd MIMAROPA Data Festival, Elmer C Peramo, a technical expert from DOST-ASTI, delved into the fundamentals of Data Science and AI. He highlighted the potential of these technologies to propel the country’s technological landscape forward.
The iTANONG and ASTI-Automated Labeling Machine (ASTI-ALaM) projects, championed by DOST-ASTI, were spotlighted during the festival. These initiatives underscored the institute’s commitment to democratising advanced AI technologies, ensuring that the benefits of AI-driven progress are not confined to urban centres. Instead, regional communities are encouraged to leverage AI to address their unique challenges, fostering a more inclusive technological landscape.
The 2nd MIMAROPA Data Festival became a platform for DOST-ASTI to engage with statisticians, data experts, and stakeholders, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities unique to the region.
This commitment to regional empowerment aligns with DOST-ASTI’s vision of advancing cutting-edge AI technology nationwide, fostering local innovation, and shaping a future where AI acts as a catalyst for positive change and significant national development.
According to DOST-ASTI, AI innovation drives multifaceted advantages for national development. Streamlining processes, optimising resources, and fostering economic growth, AI creates new job opportunities, positioning nations as technological leaders. In governance, it enhances public services and facilitates informed decision-making through data analysis.
Societal impact is evident in improved healthcare, education, and public safety, promoting inclusivity. AI also contributes to environmental sustainability and necessitates capacity building for a skilled workforce.
Likewise, it enhances national security by bolstering surveillance and defence capabilities. Extending its reach regionally, AI bridges urban-rural gaps, fostering inclusive development and positioning nations on a trajectory of sustained progress and innovation.