For President Galasโwhose academic and professional expertise lies in Information Technologyโthe summit resonates beyond representation. As an IT Professor and education leader, he brings to the national conversation an in-depth level of interest in the understanding of AI systems, digital infrastructure and data-driven governance. His background situates him at the intersection of technology and policy, enabling him to engage critically with discussions on ethical AI deployment, cybersecurity safeguards, algorithmic accountability, and curriculum modernization.
Convened by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), led by ๐๐ต๐ฎ๐ถ๐ฟ๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐๐ผ๐ป ๐๐ฟ. ๐ฆ๐ต๐ถ๐ฟ๐น๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ด๐ฟ๐๐ฝ๐ถ๐, under the Office of the President, the summit is anchored on Republic Act 7722, or the Higher Education Act of 1994, which mandates CHED to promote quality and responsive higher education.
Through RAISE 2026, the Commission advances a national framework that situates AI not merely as a technological advancement, but as an instrument for inclusive development, institutional resilience, and nation-building.
The summitโs central theme Responding through AI for Societal Empowerment reframes the discourse on digital transformation. Rather than focusing solely on automation or efficiency, CHED refocuses on the ethical, human-centered, and socially responsive deployment of AI within higher education institutions (HEIs).
This event directly aligns with CHEDโs vision for a Philippine higher education system that is equitable and capable of producing locally responsive, innovative, and globally competitive graduates and lifelong learners.
It equally reinforces PSUโs institutional vision of becoming a leading industry-driven State University in the ASEAN region by 2030.
Moreover, plenary sessions and thematic discussions emphasize responsible AI adoption, curriculum integration, research innovation, and multi-sectoral collaboration among academe, industry, and government. Its objective is to ensure that technological progress translates into tangible societal benefit and expanded access to opportunities across communities.
Through this engagemnet, the presidentโs attendance seeks to cultivate graduates who are not only technologically proficient but also critically aware of AIโs societal implications.
The event was another bonding moment for President Galas and former PSU Vice President for Local and International Affairs,, Dr. Ian Evangelista, who now serves as CHED Deputy Executive Director IV.
As the summit unfolded, CHED RAISE 2026 is anticipated to shape policy directions, academic standards, and collaborative networks that will define the trajectory of AI integration in Philippine higher education.
Through its active presence in this national convocation, PSU acknowledges its role in an educational paradigm where Artificial Intelligence functions not for dependence but for empowerment and sustainable national development.
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(NOTE : Some photos courtesy of Manila Bulletin and CHED)
