THE DOST is betting on its ELEV8PH framework to bridge the gap between the Philippines and its global peers, offering a strategic roadmap to accelerate the country’s transition into a high-tech economy.
Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. emphasized the importance of this framework during a fireside chat at The Manila Times Digital Innovation Forum 2026, held April 14 at the Hilton Manila. Moderated by Manila Times Information Technology Editor Orlando “Jing” Garcia, the session titled "Encoding the Currency of Truth in the Digital Economy" focused on the urgent need for a structured digital transition.
Solidum noted that while the Philippines is holding its own in specific applications like disaster risk reduction and smart agriculture, it continues to lag in critical infrastructure. The ELEV8PH roadmap is designed to address these disparities by focusing on strategic pillars, specifically artificial intelligence and quantum computing.
The secretary was direct about the hurdles ahead, particularly in connectivity. He noted that the speed, reach and cost of internet services in the Philippines still trail behind global benchmarks, acting as a drag on wider digital adoption.
To overcome these barriers, the ELEV8PH framework prioritizes the democratization of machine learning tools. Solidum said the goal is to provide businesses and researchers with ready-to-use platforms that do not require deep technical expertise, effectively lowering the barrier to entry for industrial-scale AI.
The roadmap also looks toward the frontiers of advanced computation. While advanced economies have already integrated quantum computing into their research, Solidum observed that the Philippines is only in the early stages. Through the national framework, the DOST aims to strengthen cybersecurity via quantum-resistant encryption and accelerate breakthroughs in pharmaceutical development.
Reflecting on recent working visits to Europe and neighboring Asean countries, Solidum highlighted that local scientists and engineers have already proven their capability with sophisticated interfaces for real-time hazard data. ELEV8PH seeks to replicate that success across all sectors of the digital economy, ensuring the Philippines does not just use technology but creates a foundation for systemic industrial growth.
