The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), together with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and tech talent platform StackTrek, has formally launched the Philippines’ first government-led Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tech Academy in Mandaue City.

PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga led the launch on 16 January, underscoring the agency’s alignment with the vision of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a digitally empowered, innovation-led, and globally competitive Philippines.

PEZA will initiate a multipartite agreement with TESDA, StackTrek, and the IT & Business Process Association Philippines (IBPAP) for the nationwide rollout of the AI Tech Academy. The initiative will be implemented in partnership with local government units hosting ecozones, Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) park developers, and colleges and universities to ensure a steady supply of AI-ready workers for the ecozone industry.

The program is designed to complement the Philippine AI Program Framework, the government’s national strategy to leverage AI for economic growth through high-performance computing, workforce upskilling, research and development, and ethical AI deployment.

Located at the ETO Building in Cebu, the Academy will offer practical, industry-driven training in AI, data science, fintech, blockchain, and other emerging technologies, helping bridge skills gaps and support the shift toward smart manufacturing and digital services.

The flagship initiative aims to build a strong pool of experts capable of supporting advanced services and the modernization of ecozones nationwide. PEZA-registered workers can access upskilling and reskilling programs free of charge.

StackTrek chief executive officer Billy Yuen reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to sustaining the Academy, noting strong industry support as the first batch of PEZA locator trainees has already begun training.

“This launch is a strategic investment in our people and in the competitiveness of our ecozones. For decades, PEZA has been a catalyst for industrialization, job generation, and export-led growth. Today, we strengthen that role by ensuring our workers and locators are equipped with the skills demanded by the industries of tomorrow,” Panga said.