Iloilo city: The Department of Science and Technology in Western Visayas (DOST-6) is gearing up for the 2026 Artificial Intelligence (AI) Festival, a regional initiative aimed at advancing the practical, ethical, and collaborative use of AI in governance, industry, education, research, and the creative sector. During the launch of the event in Iloilo on Tuesday, DOST-6 Regional Director Rowen Gelonga said the activity seeks to ensure that the goals and objectives of the Western Visayas AI Action Plan will be presented to stakeholders, as well as report what they have done so far.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gelonga emphasized the significance of creating opportunities for further collaboration through various technical activities planned in the region. Although initiated by Western Visayas, the AI Fest 2026 is being positioned as both a national and an international event, with invitations extended to participants beyond Western Visayas and from ASEAN countries.

Gelonga highlighted that the event, now in its second year, aims to be larger than before, expanding from four major components last year to nine this year. The festival will feature a technical conference with plenary sessions on diverse AI-related topics and issues, AI research and development presentations, and updates on the latest AI technologies and trends from industry leaders.

The AI Hackathon national competition will serve as a platform for innovators, alongside exhibits showcasing cutting-edge AI products and innovations. Additional activities will include Sine AI for the creative community, AI Game On!, AI in motion robotics workshop and competition, roundtable discussions, seminars, and a policy lab/workshop.

The event is scheduled for August 3-5 and is centered around the theme "Building an AI-ready Future, Together."