Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed Executive Order No. 131 on Nov. 12, adopting a national artificial intelligence (AI) governance framework and creating the National Artificial Intelligence Council (NAIC) to oversee its implementation.
In a press briefing on Saturday, Nov. 14, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the national framework aims to strengthen the country’s AI development and establish clear governance regarding the technology’s use to benefit the workforce, businesses and communities.
She added that it also seeks to ensure the responsible, ethical and secure use of AI across industries, with necessary safeguards to maintain public trust.
Castro noted that the president recognizes AI not only as a means to advance technology but also as a tool to improve the lives of Filipinos and deliver practical societal benefits.
Under the executive order, NAIC will be chaired by the Executive Secretary, while the secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) will serve as vice chairperson.
The council members will be composed of the heads of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Finance (DOF), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
