President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially launched the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Project AGAP.AI (Accelerating Governance and Adaptive Pedagogy through Artificial Intelligence) today at Quezon City Science High School. The initiative marks a pivotal step in the administration’s commitment to harnessing emerging technologies to future-proof the national economy and modernize the Philippine education system.
During the keynote address, President Marcos emphasized that artificial intelligence is no longer just a futuristic concept but a primary driver for national development. “At the national level, we are leveraging AI as an engine for development. We are establishing the Philippine AI Program Framework for the future-proofing of our economy,” President Marcos stated.
The President outlined a multi-faceted national framework designed to integrate AI into the fabric of Philippine society. Key pillars of this strategy include:
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Infrastructure Investment: Building high-performance computing systems to support data-heavy technological needs.
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Upskilling & Education: Providing teachers and workers with the tools and training necessary to navigate an AI-driven landscape.
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Ethical R&D: Ensuring that research and development remain human-centered, ethical, and responsible.
As the current Chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), President Marcos announced that the Philippines is spearheading the creation of a harmonized AI ecosystem across the region. This regional roadmap focuses on five vital sectors: Finance, Agriculture, Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Education.
“We are taking the lead in building an innovative environment for Filipinos, as well as for our ASEAN brothers and sisters,” the President added.
While the President identified himself as a “tech enthusiast,” he issued a clear reminder to students and educators that technology is a supplement to—not a replacement for—human character. He stressed that while AI can solve complex problems, it cannot replicate the “core human qualities” required for success.
“Technology cannot replace discipline. It cannot replace effort. It cannot replace the habit of showing up prepared and ready to learn,” the President emphasized. “It should never replace your drive, your creativity, and grit to learn about our world.”
The launch of Project AGAP.AI serves as a cornerstone for the administration’s Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) campaign. The President concluded by envisioning a nation that is technologically enabled but fundamentally powered by the hard work and aspirations of its people.
