Philippines to Launch National AI Research Center

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will launch the National Artificial Intelligence Center for Research and Innovation (NAICRI) on February 26 ^[1][2]. The new facility at the Manila Hotel aims to consolidate the nation's AI research, training, and computing infrastructure into a single permanent hub ^[1][4]. Science Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. stated that the center will serve as the institutional backbone for the National AI Strategy for the Philippines ^[2][3]. NAICRI will integrate existing platforms such as the national supercomputing facility, COARE, and the conversational interface iTANONG ^[3][4]. The hub is designed to provide long-term governance and coordination beyond individual project funding cycles ^[1][2]. It will also offer reusable AI templates for sectors like health, agriculture, and disaster management to ensure scalable technology across the country ^[2][4].