The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will launch the National Artificial Intelligence Center for Research and Innovation (NAICRI) on Feb. 26.

“NAICRI will serve as the Philippines’ central hub for AI (artificial intelligence) research, advanced computing, and innovation — designed to provide continuity, coordination, and governance beyond individual projects and funding cycles,” DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said in a statement.

The hub will showcase operational AI platforms and tools developed by the DOST, consolidating AI research and computing infrastructure.

Some of these innovations include NAIRA (Nexus for AI Research and Applications); DIMER (Democratized Intelligent Model Exchange Repository); and iTANONG.

NAIRA consolidates access to computing resources, AI models, and deployment tools for government agencies, researchers, and micro, small and medium enterprises.

On the other hand, DIMER is where models for agriculture, disaster detection, and traffic analysis can be built and deployed across agencies; while iTANONG is a natural language interface that lets users search complex organizational data using Filipino language.

According to the DOST, NAICRI will be the institutional leader for national AI research priorities, partnerships, and standards, coordinating efforts across government, academe, and industry.

It will also serve as a platform and services hub for data systems and reusable AI templates that agencies and partners can adopt for sectoral applications in health, disaster risk reduction, agriculture, traffic management, and other priority areas.

“The Center ensures that functional systems become enduring national assets – well-governed, scalable, and accessible beyond Metro Manila,” the DOST said.

The launch will be held at a hotel in Manila, and will gather government officials, Congress leaders, academe, industry, development partners, and international collaborators. (PNA)