Iloilo city: Health researchers from Western Visayas gathered in this city for a three-day conference to promote artificial intelligence (AI) in health research and development to address current gaps in the industry. In his message during the opening ceremonies on Tuesday, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum emphasized that while AI is reshaping health systems in the modern age, it’s ‘more than just adopting the tools’ here in the Philippines.
According to Philippines News Agency, Solidum highlighted a deeper mission: ensuring that innovation reaches every barangay, island, and Filipino family, regardless of their remoteness or size. “Ours is a deeper calling: to ensure that innovation reaches every barangay, every island, and every Filipino family, no matter how distant, no matter how small,” he stated before 300 researchers from academic institutions, national government agencies, and private institutions in the region. The goal is a region where researchers collaborate, and health research outcomes are translated into concrete policies and programs that genuinely uplift lives.
Dr. Aimee Marie Gayomali from the Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) mentioned that AI boosts health service delivery in remote areas, particularly in expediting patient diagnosis. With AI, services can be directed to those who are truly in need, maximizing the limited resources available to the government. “Any AI innovations that can help service delivery to the public are welcome,” she added.
University of the Philippines – Manila Chancellor Dr. Michael Tee remarked that AI and data could aid in predicting appropriate interventions and improving workflow. Meanwhile, DOST Regional Director Rowen Gelonga discussed ongoing efforts to prepare the region for AI adoption, noting that action plans have been crafted in collaboration with other stakeholders, including the private sector. “We have crafted our action plan for AI. We are one in consonance with other stakeholders. It’s not only the government that is exerting effort, but also the private sector,” he said.
This year’s conference is anchored on the theme “AI for Health Research in Western Visayas.”
