(L-R) Samantha Hamada, Chief of Staff, City Mayor’s Office; Elias Aoanan, Assistant City Planning and Development Coordinator; Micaela Gay Rimando, Supervisor and Economist of SIGLAT – Baguio Youth Innovation Hub; Roby Alampay, FVP and Head of Public Engagement at PLDT and Smart; Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong; Francis Camarao, Head of the Baguio City Management Information and Technology Division; Josh Aquino, Head of Communications at Microsoft Philippines; and Janine Laygo-Librea, Strategic Accounts at Lenovo Philippines during the launch of the AI-in-a-Box initiative in Baguio City.
PLDT and Smart Communications are expanding artificial intelligence adoption in local government through the launch of the AI-in-a-Box initiative in Baguio City, aimed at improving digital public services and accelerating smart city development.
Developed in partnership with PLDT Smart Foundation, Microsoft Philippines, and Lenovo Philippines, the initiative equips the Baguio City government with AI tools, connectivity, training, and mentorship to help integrate artificial intelligence into local governance.
The AI-in-a-Box package includes a laptop donated by Lenovo, a smartphone, connectivity devices, and premium access to AI-powered platforms such as Microsoft Copilot, which is designed to help government teams streamline workflows, improve decision-making, and enhance citizen services.
According to Roby A. Alampay, the program aims to bridge the digital divide and make AI more accessible to communities through practical and inclusive applications.
The initiative also includes an AI mentorship and acceleration program that supports Baguio City’s digital transformation roadmap. This includes developing innovation hubs, implementing smart systems for sustainability and resiliency, and expanding equal access to government services.
Benjamin Magalong said the partnership strengthens the city’s vision of becoming a smart and inclusive urban center under its long-term “Baguio 2047” development plan.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Que emphasized that AI can help local governments improve operational efficiency and deliver more responsive public services, while Michael Ngan highlighted the role of accessible technology in driving innovation at the community level.
Baguio City joins Cebu City and Lanao del Sur as among the local government units supported by PLDT and Smart in adopting AI-driven public service solutions.
The AI-in-a-Box initiative also supports the country’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9, which promotes innovation, infrastructure, and responsible digital transformation.
