Philippines

Advancing AI education, research, and professional development

Utah Valley University is partnering with key institutions across the Philippines to advance Al education, research, and professional development. In collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), UVU will conduct a national Al and technology needs assessment and provide specialized training in Al risk management. Outreach projects and seminars at the Education Center for Al Research (E-CAIR) and St. Leonard Academy will equip high school students with practical Al knowledge and award certificates of participation.

At the university level, UVU will establish collaborative research partnerships with Far Eastern University and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, focusing on global ethical and professional perspectives in Information Systems and IT, while supporting student-led Al projects. The initiative will also explore career and internship opportunities with leading Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies and professional organizations such as ISACA Manila and the Institute of Internal Auditors.

 

University Collaborations

  • Far Eastern University - Institute of Technology and Polytechnic University of the Philippines
    • Several guest speaking engagements are planned for 2026, including Dr. Yi Yin from UVU Social and Behavioral Sciences, who will lead a seminar on AI in Education, and Dr. Daryl David from FEU Tech, presenting on AI Innovation. In addition, we will continue to collaborate with these universities on research initiatives, led by Dr. Yi Yin, Dr. Kelsey Hixson-Bowles and Dr. Jerevie Canlas, exploring the applications of AI for faculty, students, and staff.
  • De La Salle University - College of Saint Benilde
    • Recent and upcoming collaborative AI-related projects between UVU and De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde include a recorded online panel discussion on “Applied AI: Practical Tools and Global Perspectives” held on October 13–14, featuring Drs. Lago, Mojado, Alfaro, and Canlas, and a December 1–2 session showcasing AI-driven student led technology research projects from both institutions. Current efforts span January to March 2026 with joint student AI projects culminating in an April presentation, alongside ongoing AI research and surveys led by faculty collaborators from both institutions. Looking ahead, an on-site half-day conference and certificate presentation under the UVU UNESCO Chair is scheduled for April 6, 2026, at De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde. 

 

Non-Profit and Giving Back Projects

  • Tahanan Walang Hagdan TWHI (home with no stairs), a Non-Profit Organization
    • Continue with the AI and cybersecurity initiative designed to protect TWHI from illegal solicitation and fraudulent donation websites. This project will also include an AI and cybersecurity training session.
  • AI, Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Training 
    • We plan to further conduct AI, cybersecurity, and data privacy training in collaboration with partner universities and non-profit organization in the Philippines. 

 

Industry Partnerships

  • The AI-focused initiative will also explore career and internship opportunities with leading Technology and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies and professional organizations such as ISACA Manila and the Institute of Internal Auditors - Philippines.

Three Sustainable Development Goals with targets and indicators for Quality Education, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

UVU Leads

carl canlas  Carl Canlas : Information Systems and Technology

kelsey hixom bowles  Kelsey Hixson - Bowles : English and Literature

yi yin  Yi Yin : Social and Behavioral Sciences

Dr. Canlas with faculty 

Dr. Canlas with the Muslim Mindanao

teams meeting