By I. Inojales | 03:42 PM October 25, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — Valencia, Bohol Mayor Dionisio Neil A. Balite was the only local chief executive to participate in the first three batches of a government training program on artificial intelligence (AI), according to the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP).
Balite completed the 32-hour Course on Artificial Intelligence for Local Government Units, held on Oct. 6 to 9 at the DAP Building in Pasig City.
The program, organized by DAP’s Center for Governance, sought to equip local government officials and personnel with the knowledge to responsibly use AI in public administration, development planning, decision-making and public service delivery.
DAP confirmed Balite’s distinction after the mayor inquired about participation in the first three batches, according to information provided by his office.
During the course’s closing ceremony on Oct. 9, Balite shared how AI could help local governments improve planning, respond faster to community needs and make public services more accessible, particularly to vulnerable sectors.
“As the lone mayor attending this course, I encourage you: bring this learning home and inspire your respective mayors. Show them how AI can help address real community needs,” Balite told fellow participants.
He said AI adoption in local government should be guided by human judgment, data privacy, transparency and accountability.
“AI can help us plan better, respond faster, and reach people who need government most,” Balite said, adding that he hoped to translate the lessons into practical improvements in public services in Valencia.
The mayor plans to explore AI applications under his administration’s BARUG Valencia agenda, which stands for Better, Affectionate, Responsive and Unifying Governance.
Among the proposed initiatives is the BARUG Valencia CARENav Ecosystem, which aims to identify vulnerable households, facilitate referrals, coordinate government assistance and improve community outreach.
The proposed system would integrate the BARUG Valencia Poverty Early Warning System, CARENav service navigation and referral mechanisms, and Care Uber mobility and outreach services.
AI could potentially support these initiatives through data analysis, case monitoring, identification of priority needs and coordination of assistance among municipal offices and barangays.
These efforts would complement the municipality’s existing Duaw-Pamahaw initiative, which reaches out to indigent families, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, sick individuals and residents living alone.
Balite stressed that technology should strengthen rather than replace the human judgment and compassion necessary for effective public service.
He also encouraged fellow participants to pursue further professional development, including the Local Government Executives and Managers Class, with its 21st batch scheduled for February 2027.
DAP awarded Balite a certificate of completion signed by Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Leocadio S. Sebastian, recognizing his successful completion of the training.
The mayor’s next challenge is to translate the knowledge gained from the course into practical applications that could improve municipal operations and make government services more responsive to Valencia residents.
