With the right elements in place, the Philippines can use artificial intelligence as a force to uplift communities and turn the country’s potential into real, life-changing impact. Leading integrated telco network PLDT Inc (PLDT) emphasized the importance of top-tier talent, stringent governance frameworks, and reliable infrastructure in fully realizing the advantages of AI to drive national economic and business growth.
At the recent Digital Nation Summit Manila spearheaded by GSMA, the organization representing mobile operators globally, PLDT and Smart Head of Network Strategy and Architecture Eric Santiago underscored the importance of enabling infrastructure, world-class talent and research, and trustworthy governance in helping the country reap the benefits of AI, which is estimated to add between 8 to 12% to GDP by 2030 through productivity, new exports and services. "It's not just about the buzzwords, but about bottom lines and better lives," Santiago said.
Santiago emphasized that talent must be strengthened nationwide, starting from schools and universities. "We should also encourage and incentivize Filipino AI experts abroad to return and help in training," he said. "Upskilling our people is essential. AI fluency must be accessible to all so we can build the bench needed for long-term innovation."
Strong governance and cybersecurity guardrails, as well as coordination with government agencies and LGUs, are also crucial. "Trust is fundamental. A resilient governance framework ensures that every API integration, every connection point, and every AI-enabled system remains safeguarded," said Santiago, adding that good governance plays a key role in attracting investors and protecting citizens.
Santiago also highlighted infrastructure as the backbone of AI adoption, citing PLDT and Smart’s rollout of a 5G Standalone network, distributed edge capabilities, and innovative resiliency solutions including laser-based, point-to-multipoint, and satellite connectivity. "We are building networks that stay intelligent and operational despite disruptions, ensuring continuous service,” he said.
As the summit calls for deeper collaboration across sectors, Santiago reaffirmed PLDT’s commitment to enabling the country’s digital future. "Through collaboration within the industry and with other stakeholders, the Philippines can lead in turning AI into what I call 'archipelago intelligence', transforming efforts into 'actual impact' and 'actionable intelligence' to deliver value across our islands,” he said.
PLDT's continued investment in network infrastructure and innovation underscores the Group's broader commitment to national digital transformation, bringing the benefits of the Internet closer to more Filipino communities, and driving technology-enabled education, livelihood, and disaster resilience across the country.
Advancing digital access and infrastructure also helps bridge socioeconomic divides, build a more future-ready Philippines, and enable the country to achieve the UN Sustainability Development Goals, particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).
