THE ADVANCED Science and Technology Institute of the Department of Science and Technology conducted a discussion on Artificial Intelligence to give clarity and quash doubts of students and professionals on the use of AI.

In his talk during the National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival on October 28, 2023, Eduardo Piedad Jr., AI expert and DOST S&T fellow, said that AI gives an efficient system that can accelerate processes like household chores and rapid transport system.

It can also help in weather forecasts and mitigate possible destruction brought by calamities and disasters. Lastly, AI can also provide entertainment and convenience to its users.

Piedad, however, acknowledged that there are risks in using the technology.

He said that AI depends on human intelligence, and humans are far from being perfect thuscan lose control of the system.

In terms of robots replacing humans in workplaces, Piedad said that AI is just a tool that aids humans in achieving efficiency.

Meanwhile, Stephanie Alves, DOST-ASTI Project Manager of Robot for Optimized and Autonomous Mission-Enhancement Responses, discussed the ROAMER project which is an unmanned ground vehicle that uses AI. ROAMER can track, monitor, map and survey banana plantations that may be affected by Fusarium wilt, a plant disease that causes millions in loss of revenue to banana farmers and exporters in the Philippines.

The project, funded by the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development and ASTI, was tested in various banana plantations in the country and helped farmers find infected plants.

AI can also be used as a tool for a greater understanding of the learning environment on growing certain agricultural plants.

Jefferey Aborot discussed the project Gul.ai, which aims to support universities and R&D to combine Information and Communications Technology and Internet of Things technologies on plant phenotyping for instructional purposes.