Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) is taking bold steps to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly in education governance—unveiling a comprehensive policy manual on AI use and showcasing research-led digital innovations during the forum “Leveraging Education Policies and Governance through Artificial Intelligence” held on September 16, 2025, at MMSU in Batac, Ilocos Norte.
The event, co-organized with the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) through its open-access knowledge platform, the Socioeconomic Research Portal for the Philippines (SERP-P), was part of the national celebration of the Development Policy Research Month. The collaboration highlights how open-access research and knowledge partnerships can guide ethical AI practices and strengthen evidence-based policymaking in education.
SERP-P Project Manager and Senior Research Specialist Ezekiel Nicomedes presented the SERP-P open-access platform to MMSU researchers and faculty, emphasizing the importance of accessible and transparent knowledge-sharing in the age of AI.
“Open access breaks barriers to local knowledge,” Nicomedes said. “It allows evidence-informed policies to be more accessible and helps amplify the visibility and impact of our institutions”.
At the heart of MMSU’s initiative is the Manual for AI Use in the Education Sector, a 45-page guide developed by MMSU researchers to promote the responsible and ethical use of AI in teaching, research, and administration. The manual outlines role-based guidelines, ethical principles, disclosure forms, and disciplinary measures to ensure transparency and academic accountability.
“Our research revealed a significant gap in AI awareness between students and educators,” said Dr. Mark Joseph Pastor, project lead. “This manual empowers all stakeholders to use AI critically and responsibly. It ensures that innovation remains grounded in ethics, fairness, and inclusivity”.
The forum also featured studies showing how AI can improve student research writing and presented student-developed technologies, including an AI-powered waste segregation device, a real-time parking management system, and a degree program recommendation model for prospective students—demonstrating MMSU’s growing culture of responsible digital innovation.
In his closing message, Dr. Nathaniel R. Alibuyog, MMSU Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation, reminded participants that technology must always remain human-centered.
“AI is already here. The challenge is not whether we use it, but how we use it productively. It must always serve people and be grounded in ethics and respect for human dignity”.
This marks the first time a SERP-P network member has co-organized a DPRM activity, reflecting a stronger collaboration between PIDS and its network members. Through initiatives like this, SERP-P continues to promote open-access research and encourage partnerships that bring evidence-based discussions closer to communities.
- Ezekiel Nicomedes