AI, data-driven governance lead discussions at DOST ASTICON 2026

MANILA Philippines – The Department of Science and Technology – Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) dove into AI integrated projects and data-driven governance in this year’s Advanced Science, Technology, and Innovation Convention (ASTICON) 2026 at the Lanson Place, Pasay City on June 23.

ASTICON 2026 focused on its theme of “Preparing Tomorrow, Today: Building Real National Capabilities.”

Key speakers such as Atsushi Yamanaka, Senior Advisor of Digital Transformation from JICA Headquarters and Franz A. De Leon, Ph.D., Director of DOST-ASTI shared insights and discussions to move the country forward in its science and technology programs.

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AI as part of the initiatives

Numerous of DOST’s projects have integrated AI into projects, namely the Geospatial Analytics and Technology Solutions (GATES) Program.

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“We meet at a moment when artificial intelligence, geospatial intelligence, advanced computing, and data-driven governance are our operating allies,” said DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr.

The GATES program is among DOST-ASTI’s core projects that combines geospatial data with artificial intelligence to assist in building data-driven decisions among government sectors.

RELATED STORY: DOST partners with Japan agency for AI disaster analytics

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“Through GATES, and with partners such as DOST-PHIVOLCS and other line agencies, the Department is organizing our geospatial datasets across disaster risk, health, environment, and infrastructure,” Solidum added.

At the backbone of this initiative is the establishment of the National AI Center for Research and Innovation (NAICRI).

“NAICRI anchors our national AI R&D Infrastructure, our research and talent pipeline, and our governance, so that AI capability in the Philippines is not contingent on a single program, a single budget cycle, or a single administration.” said Solidum.

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Ongoing DOST projects

Exhibited projects also include AI within its core, such as the Swift Emergency Response Vehicle Integration System with Smart Traffic and Electronic Enforcer on the Road (sERVis-STEER).

sERVis-STEER analyzes data from real time traffic for better emergency response, with AI to guide responders with efficient routes.

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Meanwhile, The Resilient Education Information Infrastructure for the New Normal (REIINN) is developing two components for its project.

REINNN’s LokaLTE seeks to deploy community LTE networks and RuralCasting uses datacasting technology geared towards students.

Another is the Assistive Systems Using AI in Healthcare Operations Nationwide (AYUHON) program.

The tool connects parents and neurodivergent children with the appropriate healthcare provider based on their diagnosis.

Data-driven solutions

ASTICON 2026 showcased scientists, technology experts, and partners their commitment to providing more data-driven solutions.

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“National capability is not built by any single institution or any single tool. It is built when infrastructure, talent, and governance come together, and when partners stay in the room long after the demo ends,” said De Leon in a press release.