Marcos establishes council to oversee Philippine AI governance

The Philippines is establishing an inter-agency body to oversee a new national framework governing artificial intelligence under an order signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on November 12. Palace press officer Claire Castro announced the signing of Executive Order No. 131 on November 14.

The executive secretary will chair the National Artificial Intelligence Council (NAIC). Its membership will draw from government agencies, including the Commission on Higher Education and the Department of Economy, Planning and Development.

The council is tasked with coordinating, facilitating and monitoring how agencies and other stakeholders implement the AI Governance Framework. The framework will guide the formulation of policy, coordination between regulators, development of institutions and capacity-building.

Castro said the order aims to give AI development a common direction while promoting responsible, safe and ethical use. She said safeguards would protect public trust, and that the measure seeks benefits for workers, businesses and communities.

Separately, Marcos used a November 14 video address to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Business and Investment Summit 2026 to urge regional businesses to lower barriers to AI tools for micro, small and medium enterprises.

He said the government's approach pairs AI adoption with training and practical support, aiming to help entrepreneurs cut repetitive tasks, improve resource use and expand their customer base.

The Official Gazette website had not yet published a copy of the order.