PLDT and Smart Communications have expanded their AI-in-a-Box (AIAB) program to Metro Cebu, equipping local government units with artificial intelligence tools, connectivity, and training aimed at improving public service delivery.
The rollout covers Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, and Talisay City, making Metro Cebu one of the latest areas to adopt the initiative designed to help local governments integrate AI into their day-to-day operations.
Equipping local governments with AI tools
AI-in-a-Box is a PLDT Group initiative that seeks to make artificial intelligence more accessible to communities by combining technology, connectivity, capacity-building, and mentorship.
Each participating local government received an AI-in-a-Box kit containing:
- A laptop
- A smartphone
- A Smart connectivity device
- Premium access to AI platforms, including ChatGPT
The program also provides specialized training to help government personnel understand practical applications of AI and identify ways to improve internal processes and citizen services.
Cebu City joins pioneering AI program
During a turnover ceremony at Cebu City Hall, Mayor Nestor Archival accepted the AI-in-a-Box package on behalf of the city.
Representing PLDT and Smart during the event were Roby Alampay, First Vice President and Head of Public Engagement and Corporate Communications, and Stephanie V. Orlino, Assistant Vice President and Head of Stakeholder Engagement.
Alongside Cebu City, officials from Lapu-Lapu City and Talisay City also received their respective AIAB packages and completed training to strengthen their internal AI capabilities.
Mentorship for AI-driven governance
As one of the country’s four pioneer participant cities, Cebu City is the only representative from the Visayas in the AI-in-a-Box mentorship and acceleration program.
Organized by PLDT and Smart with support from the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF), the program guides local government personnel in transforming AI concepts into practical digital solutions that address specific community needs.
Participants will receive mentorship as they develop and deploy AI-enabled projects designed to make government services faster, more responsive, and more efficient.
Commitment to digital innovation
PLDT and Smart said the initiative reflects their goal of helping local governments harness technology to improve governance.
“We at PLDT and Smart believe that technology should help enhance the delivery of public service. Through the AI-in-a-Box Program, we affirm our commitment in assisting LGUs to level up service delivery through a more citizen-focused, practical, secure, and innovative technology,” said Roby Alampay.
Mayor Archival also welcomed the initiative, describing Cebu City’s inclusion as both an honor and an opportunity to strengthen innovation within local government.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, he said being selected as one of the pioneer participants would help the city leverage artificial intelligence to provide faster, more efficient, and more compassionate services to Cebuanos.
Supporting digital transformation nationwide
By combining AI technology, connectivity, training, and mentorship, the AI-in-a-Box program aims to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and grassroots governance.
PLDT and Smart hope the initiative will serve as a scalable model for digital governance that can be replicated by local government units across the Philippines, supporting broader efforts toward digital inclusion and more responsive public service nationwide.