The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has set in motion the crafting of the country's Artificial Intelligence (AI) sector roadmap as it vowed to position the Philippines as an AI powerhouse in the ASEAN region. Trade Undersecretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba of the Competitiveness and Innovation Group led the formal signing of an agreement with distinguished data scientists, Dr. Christopher P. Monterola and Dr. Erika Fille T. Legara, for the formulation of an AI Roadmap. With the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) where technology becomes more enmeshed with everyday life, AI advancement is seen as one of the key factors to help keep our country competitive. AI's importance is underscored as it is emerging to be a potential bright spot for our country, with wide opportunities for growth for our competent workforce. "The formulation of the AI Roadmap is very important and timely. This effort provides the impetus that will move the country forward to keep up with the rapidly changing times," said Aldaba.