The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) recently made a big move to help the Philippine education system. On April 15, 2025, DTI donated 10 high-powered laptops to the Department of Education (DepEd). This is more than just a kind gesture. It’s a step forward in building AI in education and giving students and teachers better tools for learning.
Why These Laptops Matter
These laptops aren’t just ordinary computers. They’re powerful machines designed to handle artificial intelligence (AI) applications. That means they can run programs and tools that use smart technology. With these laptops, DepEd’s efforts to upgrade their systems with AI will be faster and more effective.
Trade Secretary Cristina Roque explained during the ceremony that this donation is part of a bigger goal. It’s about sharing government resources to get the most out of them. She said this is an investment in the country’s future, and it shows how important it is for government offices to work together.
“This is a commitment to innovation, a push for progress, and a strong example of government teamwork,” Roque said.
A Whole-of-Government Approach
This donation is not just about giving laptops. It’s about different parts of the government working together to improve education in the Philippines. Education Secretary Sonny Angara and Trade Secretary Cristina Roque both support this idea. By teaming up, their departments can make sure students and teachers have the best tools to succeed.
The laptops were bought through DTI’s Tatak Pinoy Strategy Program. This program helps support Filipino products and services, but now it’s also helping our schools.
How the Laptops Will Be Used
The donated laptops will help DepEd run the Education Center for AI Research (E-CAIR). This is a special system being transferred from DTI to DepEd. E-CAIR uses AI to improve school systems by:
- Making school operations more efficient
- Helping schools make smarter decisions
- Giving better support to students
- Managing school resources better
By June 2025, E-CAIR will be fully active. This means schools will start seeing real improvements thanks to these digital tools.
Preparing Students for the Future
The government’s plan doesn’t stop at laptops. Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “Bagong Pilipinas” agenda, there is a bigger goal: to create a smarter, more modern education system. This includes:
- Teaching students the digital skills they need for future jobs
- Helping teachers learn how to use AI tools in the classroom
- Making sure our students can compete with others around the world
The DTI and DepEd partnership aims to build a new generation of Filipino learners who are ready for the challenges of tomorrow.
AI for Schools and Businesses
Trade Secretary Roque also shared that DTI wants to use AI not just in schools but also to help small businesses. Many small businesses in the Philippines face tough challenges. By using AI, they can improve how they work, serve customers better, and grow faster.
This plan supports local industries and helps create jobs, all while giving students the skills to join the modern workforce.
Real Progress Through Real Partnerships
This donation shows how teamwork between government departments can lead to real improvements. By supporting DepEd, DTI is making sure that both students and teachers have access to the latest technology.
When our schools have the right tools, our students can dream bigger. They can learn faster, and they can be better prepared for future jobs — especially those that require AI and tech knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the purpose of the laptop donation by DTI to DepEd?
The donation aims to help DepEd use AI tools in schools, improve digital learning, and prepare students and teachers for future technologies.
What kind of laptops were donated?
DTI donated high-powered laptops that can run advanced AI applications and programs, useful for both teaching and administration.
How will these laptops help students and teachers?
The laptops will be used for the Education Center for AI Research (E-CAIR), which will improve school management, resource use, and student support through smart tools.
What is E-CAIR?
E-CAIR stands for the Education Center for AI Research. It’s a system that uses artificial intelligence to make schools run more efficiently and help students learn better.
How does this fit into the Bagong Pilipinas agenda?
The project supports the goal of creating a modern, innovative education system that gives students the skills needed to succeed in global industries.
This move by DTI shows how smart planning and teamwork can make a big difference. DTI donates laptops to DepEd, but the real gift is opportunity — the opportunity for every student and teacher to grow, learn, and succeed in a future powered by technology.
If we want a better tomorrow, it starts with better tools and stronger partnerships today.
