The University of the Philippines Resilience Institute (UPRI) participated in Huawei Connect 2026, held from September 17 to 19, 2026, in Shanghai, China. Representing UPRI were Dr. DJ Darwin R. Bandoy, Director of the Research and Creative Work Division, and Ms. Klara Rosan Bilbao, Senior Science Research Specialist of the same division. The three-day event brought together industry, research, and education stakeholders to discuss developments in artificial intelligence (AI), digital technologies, computing infrastructure, and their applications across sectors. Centered on the theme “Advancing the Agentic World,” Huawei Connect 2026 featured keynotes, discussions, demonstrations, and engagements focused on the evolving role of AI and digital innovation.
For UPRI, the event provided an opportunity to gain perspectives on emerging technologies and explore their relevance to resilience research and public service.
Exploring AI and Digital Innovation
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Discussions during the event examined the expanding role of AI in research, education, and other sectors. Sessions on AI infrastructure and AI literacy highlighted the rapid development of these technologies and the growing need for people and institutions to understand their applications. For UPRI, these discussions offered perspectives on how AI and related digital tools may support research and knowledge work, while also underscoring the importance of informed use and human expertise in working with emerging technologies.
Connecting Technology with Resilience
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UPRI also shared its experience in applying technology to disaster risk reduction. During the event, Dr. Bandoy introduced UP NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) and discussed its role in providing accessible hazard information to communities and decision-makers. The exchange provided an opportunity to connect UPRI’s work in hazard information and resilience with broader developments in technology and digital innovation. It also highlighted the potential of technology-enabled approaches to support efforts addressing complex and evolving disaster risks.
Continuing the Conversation
Beyond the formal sessions, the event brought UPRI representatives into discussions with professionals and institutions working across technology, research, and education. These interactions provided opportunities to exchange experiences and explore areas of potential collaboration. UPRI’s participation in Huawei Connect 2026 contributed to the Institute’s continuing engagement with developments in AI and digital innovation. The insights and connections gained from the event can inform UPRI’s continuing discussions on technology, research, and public service as the Institute explores approaches that respond to the changing needs of communities and the broader resilience landscape.
