The Department of Science and Technology (DoST) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have formalized a partnership to upgrade the Geospatial Analytics and Technology Solutions (GATES) program into an AI-ready national platform for disaster risk reduction, according to a report by BusinessWorld.

The GATES program originally served as a geospatial data hub for government agencies. The enhanced version will incorporate artificial intelligence to improve hazard mapping, early warning systems, and evidence-based policy-making.

The collaboration underscores the Philippines’ push to leverage advanced technology for disaster resilience, with JICA providing technical expertise and funding support. DoST aims for the platform to be operational within two years, according to the report.