DOST pushes for inclusive, ‘human-centered’ AI, modern technology

DAGUPAN CITY, PANGASINAN – The head of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) emphasized the importance of remaining inclusive amid the development of artificial intelligence and other emerging technology.

During a press conference at the 2026 Regional and Science Technology Week Region 1 on Monday, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. shared that the Philippines is following the national framework of a “human-centered artificial intelligence”.

He pointed out that advanced technology was simply just technology without data.

“The most crucial ingredient in using artificial intelligence would be the data… We are developing it for purpose solution, whether using high tech or even simple technology,” he said.

Solidum said the DOST is exerting efforts to be as inclusive as possible by customizing their support based on the capacity of their partners.

“What we're trying to do in DOST is to be inclusive. If the enterprises can use artificial intelligence, so be it, but sometimes you don't need to… The bottom line is we're using smart technologies to help communities, to help enterprises. With that kind of approach, then the last ingredient is the partnership,” he said.

“It is essential that when we look at partnerships, we need to ask their need. If they have the problem, we must fall in love with the problem, what they needed to solve. If it's a business problem or local government problem, that is what we always ask. What are the problems that we need to address using science technology? That's realistic,” Solidum added.

Some critics of AI and other advanced technological advancements have fueled concerns regarding technology replacing humans in the workforce.

Proponents of these technologies maintain that AI and other developments are intended to help make work easier, and make way for upskilling and retraining.

DOST efforts under the CUATRO Program aim to help micro, small, and medium enterprises adopt robotics and automation in their operations.

"Ito ay isang programa na pinopondohan ng DOST para isulong pa ang pagdadagdag pa ng robotics, AI, mga industry 4.0 technologies para mas ma-improve yung productivity ng mga businesses," said scientist and CUATRO developer Albert Causo in an interview.

(This is a DOST-funded program aimed at promoting robotics, AI, and Industry 4.0 technologies to improve business productivity.)

"Ang idea natin ay ang mga makabagong teknolohiya na ito, kapag ito ay inadopt ng ating mga businesses, makakatulong ito para mas mapalago ang negosyo nila, mag-improve yung capacity nila, mas marami silang ma-produce kahit with the same amount of input lang," he said.

(Our goal is that when these modern technologies are adopted by businesses, they will help grow operations, improve capacity, and allow higher output using the same amount of input.)

Meanwhile, Solidum shared the DOST is currently working on digitizing data and using geographic information systems and AI analytics with spatial analysis.

DOST is also set to launch the National Artificial Intelligence Center for Research and Innovation or NAICRI on February 26, showcasing current efforts in AI infrastructure, platforms and tools. —RF, GMA Integrated News