PLDT, Smart AI-In-A-Box Boost Baguio’s Smart City Journey

Baguio City is tapping AI for smarter public service with PLDT and Smart’s AI-in-a-Box, a digital empowerment initiative that brings artificial intelligence closer to communities through tools, connectivity, and training.

With support from the group’s social outreach arm, PLDT Smart Foundation, and partners Microsoft and Lenovo Philippines, PLDT and Smart provided the Baguio City government with an AI access kit, connectivity, and mentorship. The package also includes a laptop donated, a smartphone, a connectivity device, and premium access to AI tools.

“AI-in-a-Box reflects our commitment to technology for good,” said Roby A. Alampay, FVP and Head of Public Engagement at PLDT and Smart. “By enabling AI adoption at the community level, we aim to bridge the digital divide and create meaningful experiences that empower Filipinos to thrive in a connected society.”

Beyond the AI kit, PLDT and Smart have kicked off their AI mentorship and acceleration program for the Baguio City LGU, helping transform ideas into practical AI solutions for the city. This initiative supports Baguio City’s digitalization roadmap, which includes the development of innovation hubs, the adoption of smart systems to advance sustainability and resiliency, and the creation of equal access to opportunities and services across the city.

“PLDT and Smart’s AI in a Box initiative is more than a technological gift; it is a gesture of trust in the people of Baguio. It equips our teams with the tools to innovate boldly, plan with data-driven clarity, and design services that honor the dignity and needs of every resident,” said Mayor Benjamin Magalong of Baguio City. “This partnership strengthens our push to become a smart city and brings us closer to the long-term vision of Baguio 2047—a livable, inclusive, and creative city shaped by collaboration, compassion, and smart solutions where no one is left behind.”

Microsoft also introduced Microsoft Copilot, bringing AI into the flow of everyday government work—helping teams move faster on critical tasks, simplify processes, and unlock more time to deliver responsive and citizen-centered services.

“At Microsoft, we see AI as an engine for nation-building. It helps local governments work smarter, make decisions faster, and deliver better services to citizens. Partnerships like this matter because they keep AI grounded in real community needs, built on trust, and accessible to more people. This is how we move toward a more innovative and future-ready Philippines,” said Jonathan Que, Microsoft Philippines Country General Manager.

Lenovo Philippines, which donated the laptop included in the AI-in-a-Box kit, underscored the importance of equipping local governments with the right tools to make innovation more accessible and impactful.

“At Lenovo, we believe technology becomes most meaningful when it helps people with access to solve real problems and create better outcomes for their communities. Lenovo’s support for AI-in-a-Box is part of our larger effort to provide access to Smarter AI for All. We are proud to support Baguio City with access to technology that can help turn ideas into action through innovation,” said Michael Ngan, President and General Manager of Lenovo Philippines.

Through this initiative, PLDT and Smart continue to advance digital inclusion by working with communities and LGUs—providing mentorship and support as they adopt AI in meaningful ways. Alongside Cebu City and Lanao del Sur, Baguio City is among the LGUs supported by PLDT and Smart in developing AI-driven solutions to enhance public services and improve everyday life for residents.

With AI-in-a-Box, PLDT and Smart continue to help communities and LGUs unlock the benefits of AI in ways that are practical, inclusive, and relevant to everyday needs. The program supports the country’s efforts to achieve UNSDG 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which encourages the responsible use of digital and AI technologies to foster innovation.