Filipinos can now access artificial intelligence tools directly through the government’s eGovPH Super App, which has added a built-in assistant to help users navigate online public services. The rollout brings features such as translation, document extraction, image identification, and form assistance into one government platform.
The launch also comes with a reminder from Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos that expanding access to AI must go hand in hand with responsible use. Speaking at the feature’s launch on Monday in Manila, he emphasized that both citizens and government employees should approach the technology ethically.
RELATED: [Late Again? This Free Tool Lets You Track LRT and MRT Trains in Real Time]
Built-In Assistant Aims to Simplify Government Transactions
Called “Kuya A,” the assistant is designed to help users find their way through digital government services. It can extract information from documents, identify images, translate content, assist with forms, and provide access to official guidelines.
The feature is expected to serve over 61 million registered users of the app. Abalos described the launch as part of efforts to make government innovation more accessible and equip the public with the skills to use new technology.
“We take another step towards a government that keeps pace with the changing needs of our people. This is the purpose behind the launch of eGov AI in the eGovPH Super App. We must make innovation more accessible and equip our people with the skills to use it,” Abalos said.
He also underscored the administration’s aim to use AI to improve public services and create opportunities for Filipinos.
“This administration is championing the ethical and responsible use of AI as a means to improve our services to Filipinos and create opportunities for them. eGov AI puts that principle into practice,” he added.
DICT Positions eGov AI as First Phase of Wider Integration Plan
The eGov AI module marks Phase 1 of the Department of Information and Communications Technology’s (DICT) national integration plan for automated public assistance. DICT Undersecretary for E-Government David Almirol Jr. said the service is free, removing the need for users to subscribe to other AI platforms.
“Our citizens can use it for free. They won't have to subscribe to other kinds of AI services,” Almirol said, noting that the tool was developed to reduce manual administrative processes.
While the assistant may make government information and procedures easier to navigate, Abalos warned against treating automated responses as unquestionable. He urged the public to use the tool with care and retain their own judgment.
“To the Filipino people, use eGov AI wisely, responsibly, and ethically,” Abalos said. “Always remember that technology should sharpen our judgment, not replace it. Let us use AI as a tool to make well-informed decisions without surrendering our own capacity to question, discern, and decide.”
As more public services move online, tools that help people understand documents, complete forms, and access official information could reduce some of the friction in dealing with the government. Their real value, however, will depend on whether they make services clearer and more accessible while keeping people informed and accountable for the decisions they make.
RELATED: [DOST to Highlight Smart Technologies at EV Science Week]
