Artificial Intelligence in the Philippine Local Governance: Challenges and Opportunities

Around 300 representatives from around 90 local government units (LGUs) across the country learned more about the basics of artificial intelligence (AI) and opportunities on how to apply AI to improve the delivery of public services in an AI 101 for LGUs webinar spearheaded by PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc.

John Y. Palanca, Senior Vice President and Head of Sales and Distribution at Smart, opened the program and welcomed the participants. Speakers included Elijah Mendoza, Digital Communications Senior Manager at PLDT and Smart; Carlo Valencia, founder of Startup PH Training; and Cedrick Zabala, faculty at Western Mindanao State University.

Participants also learned more about AI tools, the current landscape of AI use in the Philippines and the challenges and opportunities being faced by LGUs in implementing AI in governance, and how to mitigate AI risks by being #CyberSmart in the AI world.

This initiative is part of PLDT and Smart's broader support for the government's overall digitalization thrust.

In my insightful presentation, we will explore the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Local Government Units (LGUs) in the Philippines. As we delve into the current state of AI adoption, we uncover both the nascent enthusiasm and the significant hurdles faced by LGUs. The talk highlights the challenges such as limited technical expertise, inadequate infrastructure, and financial constraints that hinder broader AI implementation.

Despite these obstacles, the opportunities AI presents for enhancing local governance are profound. We will discuss how AI can streamline administrative processes, enhance decision-making with data-driven insights, and improve citizen engagement through automated services. The presentation not only outlines the potential benefits but also sheds light on the tangible improvements AI has already begun to foster in pilot regions like the Zamboanga Peninsula.

Addressing policymakers and stakeholders, we will give strategic recommendations to overcome the challenges. These include investing in human capital, upgrading infrastructure, fostering public-private partnerships, and crafting clear regulatory frameworks to support ethical AI use. The talk emphasizes the importance of collaboration across various sectors to realize the full potential of AI in local governance.

Concluding on a visionary note, we call for a unified approach to navigate the complexities of AI integration, suggesting that such advancements could lead to smarter, more responsive, and more inclusive community governance. This presentation not only maps out the challenges and opportunities of AI but also serves as a call to action for all stakeholders involved to help build a #CyberSmart community in the AI world.

Check out the complete presentation here:



Watch the complete webinar here:

Gabbang Merit Award

JCI Philipines Area 5 (Mindanao) unveiled the winning design for the Area 5 Merit Award Trophy Design Competition — the splendid "Gabbang Merit Award," masterfully created by truly yours, RCD Cedrick Zabala of JCI Western Mindanao 2! 🏆 

The unprecedented move to rename and redesign the Gawad Mindanao Merit Award was initiated by 2024 Area Awards Chair George Gerard Lewis. This goes down as a historical milestone as the name and design will be carried through the years to come in Area 5. It is an award that is truly and uniquely Mindanaoan, complementing the Agung Award conferred to the winner of each bid category.

Thank you JCI Philippines Area 5 Mindanao for choosing our design as the new merit award trophy in the Gawad Mindanao - JCI Area 5 (Mindanao) Convention starting this year! The humble Yakan gabbang, a wooden xylophone with 5 bars, serves as a "practice instrument" for the more advance kwintangan, kulintang or agung. It's a fitting representation, of the Merit Award, or the 1st Runner-up.

The Gabbang merit trophy is a tribute to our rich cultural heritage, inspired by the humble gabbang, a traditional bamboo xylophone beloved across various groups in Mindanao. With each bamboo blade symbolizing the unifying beats of progress and collaboration, this award stands as a metaphor for the shared rhythms of our aspirations.

The design's foundation, made of native materials and indigenous textiles reflective of the Yakan tennun patterns, weaves together the diverse threads of our Mindanaoan culture, while the gilded ornament work represents the intricate beauty of our united efforts towards sustainable development. 

The design stood out among the three entries, carefully deliberated and voted upon by the Executive Committee. It was ratified by the Area Council during the 2024 2nd Area Council Meeting held at Adelina Hotel, Mati City.

This design also pays homage to Uwang Ahadas, a Gawad Manlilikha ng Bayan for folk music from the Yakan Tribe of Lamitan, Basilan, and a National Living Treasure.

Mabuhay Area 5! It's such an honor and privilege for JCI Western Mindanao 2 and 3, and JCI Zamboanga to be represented through this award!

"Congratulations to RCD Ced for sculpting a narrative of tradition, unity and excellence!"- JCI Area 5

#GabbangMeritAward #JCIArea5 #JCIPhilippines #OneMindanaoArea