The Philippines will formally launch a national hub for artificial intelligence research and innovation next month.
The aim is to consolidate AI expertise, computing resources and applied technologies across government, academia, and industry.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will inaugurate the National Artificial Intelligence Center for Research and Innovation (NAICRI) on February 26, the Philippine News Agency reported.
The centre is designed to provide a coordinated platform for AI research and development beyond the limitations of individual projects or short-term funding cycles.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr described the hub as a central node for AI research, advanced computing, and innovation in the Philippines.
He said the centre would ensure continuity, governance, and strategic coordination for the country’s AI initiatives.
Consolidating AI platforms and tools
NAICRI will showcase operational AI platforms and tools developed by the DOST, consolidating national computing infrastructure and research capabilities.
Key systems include the Nexus for AI Research and Applications (NAIRA), the Democratized Intelligent Model Exchange Repository (DIMER), and iTANONG.
NAIRA provides consolidated access to computing resources, AI models, and deployment tools for government agencies, researchers, and micro, small, and medium enterprises.
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DIMER enables the development and deployment of AI models for applications such as agriculture, disaster detection, and traffic monitoring, facilitating cross-agency collaboration.
iTANONG serves as a natural language interface that allows users to query complex organisational datasets in Filipino, expanding accessibility for a broader range of stakeholders.
According to the DOST, these platforms will form the foundation of NAICRI’s mission to coordinate national AI research priorities, establish technical standards, and foster partnerships across government, academia, and industry.
Building enduring AI infrastructure
“The Centre ensures that functional systems become enduring national assets—well-governed, scalable, and accessible beyond Metro Manila,” the DOST said.
The initiative reflects the government’s effort to institutionalise AI capabilities while making them available to regions outside the capital, enabling more inclusive technological development.
The launch event will take place at a hotel in Manila and will bring together government officials, members of Congress, academic representatives, industry partners, development agencies, and international collaborators.
By consolidating resources, research, and applications, NAICRI aims to strengthen the Philippines’ capacity to leverage artificial intelligence for social, economic, and governance challenges while promoting innovation and sustainable development across the country.
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