ILOILO — Iloilo Province remains open to major investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies despite the controversy that derailed a proposed AI data center in Oton, Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque said, stressing that technological development must be matched by responsible governance.
Debuque said the recent experience in Oton should not discourage local government units (LGUs) from considering future technology-related investments, as existing processes allow proposals to undergo scrutiny before they are approved.
“Our LGUs are empowered to accept and evaluate all proposals. Kag ako, ang mahambal ko diri sa probinsya sang Iloilo, we welcome major technological investment including investment on AI, drone technology, 3D printing. Ang aton lang, technological development must come hand in hand with responsible governance,” Debuque said.
Her statement came following the controversial public consultation on the proposed AI Data Center in Barangay Abilay Sur, Oton, where Norway Green Energy managing director Daniel Stefan Robertsen walked out during the question-and-answer portion.
Debuque said the incident, which she described as a “bad experience,” should not become a reason to shut Iloilo’s doors to future investments in AI and other emerging technologies.
Should the provincial government receive similar or related investment proposals, she assured that these would be properly evaluated and their offers carefully examined.
She pointed to the opening of the province’s first school-based “technohub” at Cabatuan National Comprehensive High School in Cabatuan as proof that Iloilo welcomes technological development. The facility offers training in drone technology, 3D printing and related fields.
Debuque also said the Oton controversy demonstrated that Iloilo has functioning institutions and mechanisms to scrutinize proposed investments, particularly through public consultations.
She said she could not yet determine whether other LGUs in Iloilo have received proposals for similar technology-related investments because these are submitted directly to the concerned LGUs rather than coursed through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
Debuque added that the provincial government remains ready to provide technical assistance to LGUs whenever needed, particularly in crafting their Comprehensive Land Use Plans./PN