The Philippines and the European Union (EU) are expanding cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI) research, infrastructure, policy and workforce development through the EU-PH Advancing Research and Innovation on Artificial Intelligence Mission. The initiative brings together government agencies, researchers, universities and industry representatives to identify areas for cooperation and strengthen institutional capabilities for AI development.
The mission included visits to Philippine institutions involved in AI and advanced computing, including the VITRO Data Center in Sta. Rosa, Laguna; Aboitiz Data Innovation in Makati; De La Salle University Laguna’s Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology Park; and the Department of Science and Technology–Advanced Science and Technology Institute’s Electronic Products Development Center in Taguig. Discussions covered advanced computing, data integration, AI governance and infrastructure.
The cooperation forms part of the broader EU-Philippines Digital Economy Package, which includes a EUR10 million top-up for AI policy, governance, infrastructure, research and talent development. The Philippines is implementing its National AI Strategy for the Philippines National AI Center for Research and Innovation, which is intended to coordinate AI infrastructure, research, commercialisation and talent development. The broader Digital Economy Package is backed by a EUR20 million EU contribution, with additional funding from Finland and France, and covers connectivity, satellite data, 5G regulatory support, cybersecurity, digital skills and innovation.