Baguio City Taps AI for Smarter Public Service
By: Nonnette C. Bennett, with PLDT,SMART
Baguio City, Philippines — The local government of Baguio City is embracing artificial intelligence to enhance public service delivery through AI-in-a-Box, a digital empowerment initiative by PLDT and Smart.
The program, supported by the PLDT Smart Foundation in partnership with Microsoft and Lenovo Philippines, provides communities with access to AI tools, connectivity, and mentorship. Baguio City received an AI kit that includes a laptop, smartphone, connectivity device, and premium access to AI platforms.
“AI-in-a-Box reflects our commitment to technology for good,” said Roby A. Alampay, FVP and Head of Public Engagement at PLDT and Smart. “By enabling AI adoption at the community level, we aim to bridge the digital divide and create meaningful experiences that empower Filipinos to thrive in a connected society.”
Beyond the kit, PLDT and Smart launched an AI mentorship and acceleration program for the city government, helping transform ideas into practical AI solutions. The initiative aligns with Baguio’s digitalization roadmap, which envisions innovation hubs, smart systems for sustainability and resiliency, and equal access to opportunities across the city.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong welcomed the partnership, calling it “a gesture of trust in the people of Baguio.” He added, “This equips our teams with the tools to innovate boldly, plan with data-driven clarity, and design services that honor the dignity and needs of every resident. It strengthens our push to become a smart city and brings us closer to the long-term vision of Baguio 2047.”
Microsoft introduced Copilot to integrate AI into everyday government work, helping teams streamline tasks and deliver citizen-centered services. “AI is an engine for nation building,” said Jonathan Que, Microsoft Philippines Country General Manager. “Partnerships like this keep AI grounded in real community needs, built on trust, and accessible to more people.”
Lenovo Philippines, which donated the laptop included in the kit, emphasized the importance of equipping local governments with the right tools. “Technology becomes most meaningful when it helps people solve real problems and create better outcomes,” said Michael Ngan, Lenovo Philippines President and General Manager.
Baguio joins Cebu City and Lanao del Sur as among the LGUs supported by PLDT and Smart in developing AI-driven solutions for public service. The initiative also contributes to the Philippines’ efforts to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goal 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, promoting responsible use of digital technologies to foster innovation.
With AI-in-a-Box, PLDT and Smart continue to advance digital inclusion, ensuring that communities and local governments can harness AI in ways that are practical, inclusive, and relevant to everyday needs.
