📍 A Milestone Toward AI-Driven Philippine Education
The Department of Education (DepEd) has formally announced the establishment of the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research (ECAIR) under DepEd Order No. 013, s. 2025, dated April 29, 2025. This landmark initiative represents the government's commitment to transform the education system by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into learning, research, and policy-making — ensuring that Filipino learners and educators are prepared for the future of work.
In collaboration with the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), DepEd aims to embed AI innovations that will modernize educational institutions and bolster the nation’s competitive edge.
🎓 The ECAIR Vision: What the Center Stands For
The Education Center for Artificial Intelligence Research (ECAIR) is envisioned as a dedicated hub of AI expertise composed of specialists in data science, AI, and emerging technologies. This center will spearhead research, development, and capacity-building programs that apply AI-driven solutions to address real challenges in the education sector.
The establishment of ECAIR highlights DepEd’s commitment to:
-
Enhance educational technologies with AI to improve teaching and learning;
-
Formulate AI policies that promote smart integration across schools;
-
Encourage collaborative research among tech firms, universities, and policy institutions;
-
Support inclusive and strategic adoption of AI in the basic and secondary education system;
-
Align AI-related educational programs with the Philippine Qualifications Framework and evolving labor market needs.
⚙️Functions of ECAIR: Research, Innovation, Policy, and Capacity Building
The core functions of ECAIR include:
-
🔗 Integrating AI research and development into classroom and administrative tools;
-
🧪 Creating policy frameworks that support safe and effective AI use in education;
-
🤝 Promoting partnerships between DepEd, private tech companies, and academia;
-
📘 Guiding the curriculum enhancement process to include AI learning outcomes;
-
🛠️ Supporting teacher training and student awareness in the use of responsible AI technologies.
🏢Organizational Oversight and Funding Structure
Although ECAIR is being created in service of DepEd's goals, it is not classified as a government office. Its team members are not public officials, but will function under the Office of the Secretary (OSEC).
The Undersecretary and Chief of Staff will act as ECAIR's oversight head, tasked with aligning the Center’s operations with DepEd’s strategic objectives. Funding for ECAIR’s programs will be sourced from OSEC funds, subject to government accounting and auditing guidelines.
📅 Order Implementation and Legal Compliance
This Order is effective immediately and mandates the official recognition and support for the establishment of ECAIR. Certified copies will be submitted to the Office of the National Administrative Register (ONAR) at the UP Law Center, ensuring legal documentation and nationwide accessibility.
📨 Contact Information
For questions or further coordination, contact:
Office of the Secretary
📍 2nd Floor Rizal Building, DepEd Central Office
📧 Email: osec@deped.gov.ph
📞 Tel: (02) 8687-2922