The Philippine government is expanding its artificial intelligence (AI) ambitions through the National AI Strategy Roadmap 2.0 (NAISR 2.0), aiming to position the country as a regional AI hub. However, experts argue that this strategy must go beyond establishing data centres and instead adopt a distributed computing model that integrates AI-capable PCs and edge devices for localised processing.
The article highlights that centralised AI infrastructure poses challenges in a geographically diverse archipelago like the Philippines, where many rural areas still lack reliable internet connectivity. A data centre–centric approach could also raise sustainability concerns, given the projected 1,300 MW demand from the data centre market by 2030 and the associated rise in fossil fuel–based power consumption.
A balanced, distributed approach—combining centralised training hubs with localised AI processing—can enhance energy efficiency, reduce latency, and make AI more accessible in remote areas. Such a strategy would enable real-time applications in sectors like agriculture, disaster management, and manufacturing while ensuring inclusive, sustainable digital growth across the country.