AI Fest 2025: Coding a Better Future with Responsible AI
Iloilo City, Philippines — August 11–13, 2025
The College of Computer Studies proudly participated in the AI Fest 2025, a landmark national event held at the Iloilo Convention Center. With the theme “Coding a Better Future: Responsible AI for Cities and Communities,” the three-day festival brought together thought leaders, educators, researchers, and innovators to explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence in building smarter, more inclusive communities.
Organized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI, in collaboration with academic institutions and industry partners, AI Fest 2025 featured four major components:
- AI Technical Conference
- AI Hackathon
- SineAI Film Showcase
- AI Exhibits
College Representation and Faculty Delegation
The College of Computer Studies was well-represented by its dedicated faculty members:
- Mr. Joseph Jessie S. Oñate
- Mr. Allan O. Ibo Jr.
- Ms. Tiffany Lyn O. Pandes
- Ms. Kaela Marie N. Fortuno
Their active participation in plenary sessions, exhibits, and networking events highlighted the college’s commitment to advancing AI education and research, and fostering collaboration with other institutions nationwide.
AIRCoDe Showcases Community-Centered AI Projects
As part of the AI Exhibits, the AI Research Center for Community Development (AIRCoDe) presented two innovative projects:
🔹 Project Apaw
An AI-powered disaster preparedness and flood management system designed to support local government units with predictive analytics and real-time data for climate resilience.
🔹 University Policy Hub
An AI chatbot that simplifies access to university policies, enabling students and faculty to receive instant, accurate, and user-friendly responses to policy-related queries.
💬 Exhibit Attendee Feedback
Visitors to the AIRCoDe booth expressed strong interest in the practical applications of both projects. Feedback highlights included:
- “Project Apaw is a game-changer for LGUs. It’s impressive how AI can help us anticipate and respond to floods more effectively.”
- “The University Policy Hub is exactly what we need. It makes navigating school policies so much easier, especially for new students.”
- “AIRCoDe’s work shows how AI can be used not just for tech innovation, but for real community impact.”
The positive reception underscored AIRCoDe’s commitment to developing AI solutions that are not only innovative but also deeply rooted in local needs and social responsibility.
Keynote and Plenary Speakers: Insights from National and Global Experts
AI Fest 2025 featured a distinguished lineup of speakers who shared insights on the ethical, strategic, and practical dimensions of AI:
🧠 Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr.
Secretary, Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
Delivered the keynote address emphasizing AI’s role in disaster resilience, inclusive development, and ethical innovation.
🌍 Dr. Sancho A. Mabborang
Undersecretary for Regional Operations, DOST
Introduced the keynote and launched national AI initiatives such as TALINO.AI and SMARTGRID.AI.
📊 Ms. Michelle S. Alarcon
President, Analytics and AI Association of the Philippines (AAP)
Spoke on AI trends in business and industry, highlighting responsible data practices and cross-sector collaboration.
🌐 Prof. André Carlos Ponce de Leon F. de Carvalho
Dean, Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of São Paulo, Brazil
Presented the Brazilian AI Strategy, offering global perspectives on smart and sustainable cities.
🎓 Dr. Benito L. Teehankee
Professor, De La Salle University
Explored ethical frameworks for AI in national development.
🧠 Dr. Proceso L. Fernandez, Jr.
Director, Ateneo Intellectual Property Office
Discussed the future of education and research in the age of AI.
🎥 Mr. Gavin Lim
Filmmaker and CEO, The Void Deck (Singapore)
Shared insights on AI’s impact on creativity and cognitive processes in media and learning.
A Platform for Collaboration and Innovation
AI Fest 2025 served as a convergence point for academia, industry, and government. The event fostered partnerships, showcased student innovations, and emphasized the importance of ethical and inclusive AI development.
The College of Computer Studies and AIRCoDe’s participation reaffirmed their role in shaping the future of AI in the Philippines—grounded in community needs, academic excellence, and responsible innovation.