The Marcos administration is crafting a national framework to regulate and harness artificial intelligence (AI), recognizing both its transformative potential and the need to address public concerns about its misuse and ethics.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) to formulate the country’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (NAIS Ph) following a sectoral meeting held last month.

“Now they are working on a framework and also developing hubs that focus on understanding artificial intelligence,” Castro said in a press briefing.

She said the President wants a continuous study of AI’s benefits, risks, and the best practices adopted by other countries. The DoST is expected to provide regular policy recommendations and research updates on the AI integration.

The move comes amid growing awareness and debate about AI usage in everyday life.

Last week, a local official in Tuguegarao City drew criticism after going viral for apparently using AI to write a public prayer, including reading the AI instructions on the prayer, sparking a backlash over its perceived insincerity.

The incident highlighted both the accessibility of AI and the ethical questions surrounding its use — particularly in a deeply religious country like the Philippines.

DoST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., in a statement earlier this month, said the country’s AI strategy must ensure that innovation remains “accessible, ethical, and responsive to real societal needs.”

Solidum said NAIS Ph envisions AI powering inclusive innovation, strengthening governance, uplifting communities, and driving globally competitive industries.

The roadmap will extend beyond 2028, with development efforts having begun as early as 2024.

As the administration prepares for the upcoming State of the Nation Address, Malacañang renewed its call against the spread of misinformation and fake news.

“Firstly, the government will continue working against fake news so it can be reduced or stopped,” Castro said.

She urged media outlets, both mainstream and social media platforms, to aid in spotting and reporting false information.

“Because the media, social media, and mainstream media are a big help — when you see fake news, you can immediately alert the public, so we need your help,” she said.