January 22, 2026 — The UP Resilience Institute (UPRI) participated in a meeting that brought together key leaders in artificial intelligence (AI) research and innovation. Dr. Dj Darwin Bandoy, Director of the Research and Creative Work Division of UPRI, met with UP Vice President for Innovation Joel Marciano Jr., UP Chief AI Scientist Prospero Naval, and Ms. Michelle Alarcon, President and Managing Director of Z-Lift Solutions, Inc., and President of the Analytics & Artificial Intelligence Association of the Philippines (AAP). The discussion centered on the growing role of artificial intelligence in research, policy, and public service. Participants exchanged perspectives on how AI can support data-driven decision-making and institutional innovation. The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration between academic institutions and industry stakeholders.
The conversation also explored opportunities to integrate artificial intelligence into research and creative work initiatives within the University of the Philippines. Dr. Bandoy shared UPRI’s perspectives on applying emerging technologies to resilience and risk-related research. Discussions emphasized responsible, ethical, and inclusive AI development. The group recognized the need for interdisciplinary approaches in advancing AI applications. The engagement underscored a shared interest in leveraging artificial intelligence to support innovation and public service.