Beyond the walls of our university, we invite you to experience the beauty and spirit of Pampanga.”

This statement by Dr. Enrique G. Baking, President of Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U), sparked the inauguration of the International Conference on Research in Artificial Intelligence, Technology, and Engineering (ICREAITE) and launching of the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Research Center organized by Pampanga State U through its Research Management Office at the University Auditorium on October 27 and 28, 2026.

Dr. Baking also mentioned in his welcome message that true innovation lies in the ability to shape a better future for all as artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are being explored today.

“[True innovation] is about ensuring that progress remains anchored in our cultural heritage and traditions, allowing innovation and identity to coexist and enrich one another as we move toward a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Philippines, served as the keynote speaker for the inaugural program, saying that Central Luzon is an ideal setting for a conversation on what artificial intelligence can do. 

“Artificial intelligence gives us powerful tools to find those better ways. But let us never forget: Technology is a tool. People give it purpose,” Dr. Solidum said.

“The future of AI is being written right now in our laboratories, classrooms, and communities. And starting today, it is being built right here in Central Luzon,” he concluded.

Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat, Director of DOST-Central Luzon, and Engr. Mary Michelle M. Quiambao, Director of DOST-Pampanga, were also present alongside Dr. Solidum, as the event was part of the 2026 Regional Science and Technology Week, co-hosted by Pampanga State U and DOST-Pampanga.

With the theme “Harnessing AI and Emerging Technologies for Sustainable, Secure, and Inclusive Transformation,” various key topics and tracks are discussed by the invited speakers:

• Dr. Khalid Raza, Associate Professor at Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), New Delhi, India
• Frei Sangil, President of Layertech Software Labs, Legazpi City, Albay
• Gerard Reymari Cagayan, Application Engineer at TechSource Systems Philippines
• Dr. Aleksei Nekhaev, Director of the Language and General Education Center at Shinawatra University, Thailand
• Dr. Leah Buendia, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development
• Krishna Rajagopal, CEO and Founder of AKATI Sekurity Malaysia
• Prof. Takashi Tomita, Disaster and Mitigation Professor at Nagoya University, Japan

The conference aimed to build connections and exchange ideas, bringing together researchers, students, and educators from various institutions within and outside the Philippines.

Photo credits: Public and Media Affairs Unit

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