Marcos Creates National AI Council and Adopts Governance Framework

What Readers Should Know
President Marcos signed EO 131 to create a National Artificial Intelligence Council and adopt a national AI governance framework. The initiative aims to coordinate responsible AI development and use.
Key Takeaways
- EO 131 was signed on November 12, 2026.
- It establishes a National Artificial Intelligence Council.
- The measure adopts a national AI governance framework.
- The administration emphasizes safe, ethical, and responsible AI use.
- Detailed implementation will determine practical requirements.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order No. 131 on November 12, 2026, creating a National Artificial Intelligence Council and adopting a national framework for AI governance.
The Philippine News Agency reported that the council is intended to guide responsible AI development and use, with the administration emphasizing coordination, safeguards, and public benefit.
The move establishes a national structure for coordinating AI-related work across government rather than leaving each initiative without a common policy direction.
A framework for coordinated action
The supplied briefing identifies four areas within the framework: ethics and principles, standards and assurance, a risk-based policy toolkit, and enabling resources.
These areas address how institutions can approach AI development and deployment while considering potential consequences and the resources needed for implementation.
The council is expected to review the framework and recommend updates as technology and policy needs change.
Public benefit alongside technological development
In announcing the measure, the administration said AI should provide practical benefits to workers, businesses, and communities.
Its stated direction includes responsible, safe, and ethical deployment, with safeguards intended to maintain public trust.
The executive order is therefore relevant beyond technology companies. Government offices, schools, businesses, and other institutions adopting AI will need to follow the policies and guidance that emerge from its implementation.
Further details will shape implementation
Creating a council does not, by itself, explain every future requirement for organizations using AI.
The practical effects will depend on the framework’s implementation, subsequent guidance, and any sector-specific measures.
The immediate development is the establishment of a coordinating body and a national governance direction. Organizations should distinguish those steps from claims that a complete set of new AI compliance obligations has already taken effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does EO 131 establish?
A National Artificial Intelligence Council and a national AI governance framework.
When was it signed?
November 12, 2026.
What is the council’s purpose?
To coordinate and guide the country’s AI governance efforts.
What priorities were announced?
Responsible development, safety, ethical use, safeguards, and public benefit.
Does the announcement explain every compliance requirement?
No. Detailed obligations should be checked against the order and subsequent official guidance.