AI should support, not replace Pinoy talent — Solidum

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. on Thursday said artificial intelligence (AI) should never replace the creativity of Filipinos but instead help them harness their talent and efficiency.

Solidum made the statement during the last day of the 2026 National Textile Convention at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

As part of DOST-PTRI’s TELACon 2026, several gov’t and military uniforms featuring Pinoy craftsmanship were showcased during the KatHABI Fashion Innovation Show on Thursday.

Modeled by government employees and personnel, it presents office attire, business formal and casual… pic.twitter.com/GBbsyOF4CE

— Celine (@celine_serquina) January 29, 2026

“For (DOST), artificial intelligence should never replace the ingenuity of our countrymen. Instead, it should help them find better ways of doing things, enhancing efficiency, expanding possibilities, and opening new markets,” Solidum said.

“It is very important to state that we advocate for a human-centered artificial intelligence. AI that supports creativity, respects culture, and uplifts Filipino talent rather than erasing it,” he added.

With the theme “Stitching Futures,” the three-day event that started on Tuesday aimed to strengthen the Philippine textile industry for global competitiveness and sustainability.

He also reiterated that supporting the Philippine textile industry is an act of patriotism.

“As we move ahead, let us remember that supporting the textile industry is not only an economic agenda, it is an act of patriotism,” the DOST head said.

“Every locally developed technology we adopt, every Filipino-made fabric we wear, and every innovation we choose to commercialize is a vote of confidence in our own capabilities as a nation,” he added.

DOST had planned to launch an AI-enabled platform aimed at helping the public prepare for possible disasters.

The agency is also funding a study that seeks to use AI in detecting how the dengue virus spreads. —RF, GMA Integrated News