NPC Taps Straits Interactive for AI-Powered Data Privacy

The National Privacy Commission (NPC) has signed a strategic partnership with Singapore-based Straits Interactive to strengthen the Philippines’ data privacy capabilities through artificial intelligence, governance tools, and global best practices.

Formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on May 27, the collaboration will focus on joint knowledge-sharing activities, regulatory innovation, and the development of AI-powered privacy solutions.

“This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our commitment to uphold privacy rights and protect personal information in the Philippines,” said Privacy Commissioner Atty. John Henry D. Naga. “By collaborating with Straits Interactive, we are embracing innovation and enhancing our regulatory framework to meet the challenges of today’s digital landscape.”

A cornerstone of the initiative is NPC’s access to the beta version of Straits Interactive’s AI DPO Assistant (Philippines), a generative AI-powered tool tailored for data privacy officers.

The AI DPO Assistant leverages Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) technology via Straits’ Capabara platform, integrating Philippine-specific privacy regulations in a secure and localized framework.

During the initial stage, NPC and Straits will jointly calibrate the tool to align it with real-world compliance and governance needs in the country.

Once refined and officially launched, the assistant is expected to support NPC’s policy-making efforts in areas involving artificial intelligence and privacy enforcement.

Straits Interactive CEO Kevin Shepherdson emphasized the partnership’s transformative potential for the region’s digital future.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with the National Privacy Commission in this transformative effort to harness generative AI for innovation and empowerment in the Philippines,” Shepherdson said.

“Our goal is to equip the NPC with the necessary tools and resources to assist their ongoing efforts to promote and propagate data privacy and protection best practices within organisations, ensuring that the Philippines remains at the forefront of global data governance.”

The initiative also includes capability-building programs for NPC personnel and broader education efforts aimed at increasing national awareness on responsible data use and the ethical application of AI.

The Philippines’ Data Privacy Act of 2012 and the expanding role of the NPC have become increasingly relevant amid the rapid digitalization of government and business operations.

With generative AI systems gaining traction globally, the NPC’s proactive stance reflects growing recognition that regulatory bodies must innovate alongside emerging technologies.

The collaboration marks a critical step toward reinforcing the country’s readiness to manage data-driven risks while aligning with international standards on digital governance and privacy protection.