ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Iloilo City is once again becoming a hub for artificial intelligence as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) officially opened AI Fest 2026 on August 3 at the Iloilo Convention Center.
Now on its second edition, the three-day festival runs from August 3 to 5 under the theme “Building an AI-Ready Future, Together.” The event brings together students, researchers, technology professionals, startups, businesses, government representatives, and other AI enthusiasts to explore the growing role of artificial intelligence in society.
AI Fest 2026 focuses on the practical, ethical, and collaborative use of AI, extending beyond traditional technology applications. Organizers are highlighting AI's potential in governance, education, research, industry, business, and the creative sector.
The festival features nine major components, including an AI Technical Conference, AI Hackathon, AI Expo, SineAI, AI Game On!, AI in Motion, AI Policy Lab, AI Connect, and AI Speaks. These activities are designed to encourage collaboration, develop AI-ready talent, and demonstrate how artificial intelligence can be turned into practical solutions.
With more than 1,000 participants expected, AI Fest 2026 provides Ilonggos and visitors from across the region with an opportunity to see how AI is moving from an emerging technology into an increasingly important part of everyday life and the economy.
For Iloilo, the festival also represents a growing role in the country's technology and innovation ecosystem. By bringing together academia, government, businesses, researchers, and technology communities, AI Fest aims to help Western Visayas prepare for an increasingly AI-driven future.
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries worldwide, AI Fest 2026 sends a clear message: the AI revolution is no longer something happening only in major technology centers—it is already making its way into communities like Iloilo.
