The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is developing an integrated geospatial and artificial intelligence platform that will consolidate its vast datasets to enhance government decision-making, planning and innovation.
Science Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. announced the initiative during the Geospatial Analytics and Technology Solutions (GATES) Program stakeholder conference, where he emphasized that information, particularly geospatial data, is a ‘strategic resource for national development.’
‘It is the foundation for sound decision-making, for responsive governance, and for Agham na Ramdam – science that protects, empowers, and uplifts lives,’ he said.
Through the GATES program, the DOST seeks to harmonize data from its 18 attached agencies, 17 regional offices, and 80 provincial science and technology centers into a single, interoperable system.
These include datasets on food, climate, disaster resilience, infrastructure and health, which will become more accessible and useful across government sectors.
‘With GATES, we are ensuring that the right data is available at the right time, to the right people, powered by the right tools, for science-based planning, research, and innovation,’ said Solidum.
The program features four interlinked projects aimed at strengthening the DOST’s geospatial and AI ecosystem.
DOST Assistant Secretary for development cooperation Rodolfo Calzado Jr. said the initiative will help the agency ‘break silos and strengthen collaboration’ by facilitating data sharing across sectors.
‘GATES operationalizes the National AI Strategy through geospatial intelligence and responsible innovation – building a connected, spatially intelligent DOST and charting a future-ready nation,’ he said.
To further promote a whole-of-nation approach to AI-driven governance and development, the DOST also held the National AI Stakeholders’ Conference from Oct. 13 to 14, 2025.
The event aimed to build a collaborative AI ecosystem that enhances public services and supports industries.
Since 2017, the DOST has been laying the groundwork for an AI-ready Philippines through initiatives such as the DOST Summer School for AI, AI-related R and D projects, and investments in high-performance computing.
Together with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Education, the agency has also supported AI roadmaps and the establishment of the Education Center for AI Research.
‘These efforts form part of a larger vision now taking shape through the National AI Strategy of the Philippines,’ Solidum said, adding that by 2028, the DOST envisions a ‘new Philippines powered by AI – where innovation is inclusive, governance is smarter, and communities are empowered.’
The GATES program supports DOST’s strategic pillars of human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability, in line with its OneDOST4U campaign: ‘Solutions and Opportunities for All.’