DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian has expressed interest in leveraging the GovTech Accelerator Programme of Creative HQ, New Zealand to develop an artificial intelligence messaging platform that can help answer frequently asked questions of DSWD clients. This AI-based solution aims to eliminate long queues and reduce waiting time, digitize the provision of financial assistance, and create an online portal for social welfare programs like Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS).
During a courtesy visit by New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines, Peter Kell, the two parties discussed possible partnership opportunities and explored ways to leverage the latest technology from New Zealand. As part of DSWD’s commitment to providing innovative social welfare services, Secretary Gatchalian expressed his desire to integrate the GovTech Accelerator Programme into the agency’s systems, which is being run globally by Creative HQ of New Zealand.
The GovTech Accelerator Programme is known for its ability to help government agencies and public servants identify challenges and introduce them to proven innovation principles and processes to create a positive impact in their communities. Secretary Gatchalian and Ambassador Kell exchanged ideas on how to leverage the programme, including increasing the capabilities of DSWD personnel and providing continuous professional development through various training programs and learning exchange platforms.
To ensure the success of this initiative, Special Projects Undersecretary Eduardo Punay, Operations Group Undersecretary Jerico Francis Javier, Social Welfare Institutional Development Assistant Bureau Director Edna Sacedor, and Resource Generation and Management Office head Catherine Grace Lagunday joined Secretary Gatchalian during the meeting.
In conclusion, DSWD’s utilization of artificial intelligence and GovTech Accelerator Programme has the potential to revolutionize social welfare services in the Philippines. This new initiative can help the agency to provide better service and support to their clients by leveraging the latest technology from New Zealand.
