'For interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing': PUP introduces Al ethics, governance research program
By Sonny Daanoy
In response to the growing demand for responsible artificial intelligence (AI) development and deployment in the country, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has launched a dedicated research program focused on AI ethics and governance.

PUP’s Research, Extension, and Development (RED) Vice President Dr. Anna Ruby P. Gapasin explained the importance of this research.
“Our research program on Al ethics and governance provides a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing,” Gapasin said in a statement.
“We made headway in 2020, when we endeavored to become the hub for AI ethics research,” she added.
The research program unites experts and scholars from diverse fields such as computer science, law, philosophy, and sociology. Together, they will explore the ethical, cultural, and social dimensions of AI technology.
“The program focuses on developing guidelines and frameworks for Al governance that align with the country’s values, culture, and priorities,” PUP said.
Moreover, PUP President Dr. Manuel M. Muhi pointed out that “as Al technology continues to transform how we Filipinos live our lives, it is important that we ensure its responsible use and development.”
“It is also crucial that higher education institutions like PUP be at the forefront of promoting culturally grounded Al governance,” Muhi said.
Encompassing a wide range of subjects within AI ethics and governance, the said research program addresses key areas such as privacy and data protection, fair treatment, transparency and accountability, and societal impact assessment.
“The program explores the role of Al in various sectors, such as healthcare, education, finance, and transportation. It will be supervised by the Research Institute for Culture and Language (RICL) and the Research Institute for Strategic Foresight and Innovation (RISFI), both under the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED),” PUP said.
An essential outcome of the program is the creation of a research-based book titled "AI Ethics Primer for Filipinos."
This collaborative effort involved scholars from PUP, the University of San Carlos, the Philosophical Association of the Philippines, and De La Salle University-Manila. The book is set to be released for free in May.
"Other outputs also include research works on Filipinos’ attitudes, awareness, and behavior toward artificial intelligence and how Philippine media news outfits portray Al. More research projects are in the pipeline," PUP said.
UP is 1st PH university to craft guidelines for AI use
In July 2023, the University of the Philippines (UP) became the first university in the country to craft a doctoral program in artificial intelligence (AI).
The university formulated guidelines emphasizing "responsible" AI use.
The UP System (UPS) released a draft of "principles" for responsible AI to serve as guidance for faculty members, staff, and students.
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