While smart systems capable of tackling traffic congestion do exist, they have hitherto not taken off in The Philippines. Now, DOST-ASTI (Department of Science and Technology – Advanced Science and Technology Institute) — which also operates PREGINET, the country’s national research and education network — is working to change that.
A research team at the institute under the Nexus for AI Research and Application (DOST-NAIRA) Project has created a tool which enables optimization of AI for local traffic conditions.
For instance, public utility jeepneys (PUJs) are unique for the country. The researchers have developed software for processing video data that teaches artificial intelligence (AI) to accurately see and count PUJs and other vehicles present in the diverse mix of vehicles on Philippine roads.
Green lights for emergency vehicles
Another team at DOST-ASTI has addressed a related problem, namely how emergency vehicles often struggle to get through during hours of heavy traffic. The team has tested communication technologies that are able to talk to traffic lights and automatically get a green light. The findings provide a data-backed recommendation for building transportation systems that can create green corridors for emergency responders, ultimately saving lives.
In aquaculture, which is an important sector in The Philippines, ensuring that fish and shrimp get the right amount of food is a constant challenge, especially in murky water where visibility is low. This can lead to wasted feed and environmental issues. Here, a DOST-ASTI team has introduced a novel AI-powered imaging technique allowing farmers to monitor the distributed feed on an underwater tray with far greater accuracy. This technology promises to make Filipino aquaculture more efficient and sustainable, directly contributing to the nation’s food security.
AI tailored for The Philippines
The projects on traffic and aquaculture are part of a larger AI research and application project at the institute.
“Our goal is to democratize AI. We are building the infrastructure and platforms so that the next great idea, whether it comes from a university lab, a startup, or a government agency, has the tools it needs to become a reality,” says DOST-ASTI Director Dr. Franz A. de Leon.
The efforts underscore DOST-ASTI’s approach to research and development, which focuses on translating AI and communication technologies into real-world tools. This work moves beyond theoretical concepts to create solutions specifically tailored for the unique conditions of the Philippines.
The text is inspired by the article “From Traffic Jams to Emergency Lanes: DOST-ASTI Unveils New AI Tech Tackling Philippine Problems at ISMAC 2025” by Kurt Valcorza at the DOST-ASTI website.
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