AI Progress Hinges on Governance: Philippines Prioritizes Policy over Technology at 2025 DPRM
The Philippines' AI success depends on strong governance policies to manage risks like bias and cybersecurity. Collaboration among agencies ensures AI benefits are responsibly realized.
Philippines’ AI Future Hinges on Governance, Not Just Technology
The Philippines faces a critical juncture in adopting artificial intelligence (AI). Success won't come simply from new tech but from putting strong governance policies in place first. This was the key message at the 2025 Development Policy Research Month (DPRM), which opened on September 1.
“Policy research provides the guardrails that help governments adopt technology responsibly,” said PIDS president Dr. Philip Arnold Tuano. Without effective policies, the potential benefits of AI could be overshadowed by risks.
2025 Development Policy Research Month: Focus on AI Governance
Established under Proclamation 247 (2002), DPRM promotes evidence-based strategies through policy research. This year’s theme, “Reimagining Governance in the Age of AI,” highlights that while AI can improve efficiency and transparency, governance frameworks must address challenges like digital exclusion, bias, cybersecurity threats, and workforce displacement.
Leading the initiative, the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) coordinates with an interagency steering committee. This group includes the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Civil Service Commission (CSC), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), legislative policy offices, Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Philippine Management Staff (PMS), and for the first time, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), reflecting its growing role in AI research and governance.
Key Event and Nationwide Campaign
The highlight of DPRM is the 11th Annual Public Policy Conference on September 18 at New World Hotel Makati. This event will gather global experts to discuss AI governance and its impact on the Philippines.
Across the country, various activities will support the campaign, promoted under the hashtag #AIforGoodGovernance. These efforts aim to raise awareness about the importance of policy frameworks in harnessing AI’s benefits responsibly.
For more details, visit the official DPRM website: https://dprm.pids.gov.ph.
Practical Takeaway for IT and Development Professionals
- AI adoption must be paired with clear policies to mitigate risks like bias and cybersecurity threats.
- Collaboration between government agencies and experts is essential to create AI governance that fits the Philippine context.
- Stay informed on AI policy developments to align technology projects with national priorities and regulations.
If you’re looking to deepen your AI skills while understanding how policy impacts technology deployment, explore relevant courses at Complete AI Training.
