Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo
•
Jun 5, 2024
Leveraging AI to promote accurate and objective news
I’ve always believed in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to support our vision for inclusive and sustainable development.
This technology has already started to change the way we do things. With its proper development and use, it can even help address many of the world’s lingering problems, including challenges on advancing inclusive development and gender equality.
When we founded Build Initiative, it was our intent to use AI as a force for good by utilizing its potential to break societal divides, allowing even marginalized communities to access new technologies.
Recently, we introduced Night Owl GPT, an innovative mobile app at the forefront of AI technology, crafted to transcend language barriers and foster inclusivity across the Philippines. It is currently fluent in Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilokano. But we will expand its linguistic capabilities to encompass all 170 languages spoken throughout the country.
As part of our goal to capitalize on new technologies to promote inclusivity, Build Initiative has forged a partnership with Manila Bulletin to enhance Night Owl GPT’s coverage of Philippine current events.
Leveraging Manila Bulletin’s extensive database of accurate and objective news, Night Owl GPT will now offer users up-to-date information on current events, ensuring that even the most marginalized groups can stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in the country.
This also means that Filipinos who are fluent in Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilokano can now enjoy reading news and their favorite column articles from Manila Bulletin in these three languages. This is a significant milestone in Build Initiative and Manila Bulletin’s shared commitment to democratizing access to information and fostering inclusivity.
Ed Bartilad, Manila Bulletin’s Executive Editor, emphasized the importance of this partnership in the news organization’s mission to provide accurate and objective news to its readers and followers worldwide. Now, through Night Owl GPT, their comprehensive news will be accessible to more readers and followers regardless of their language or location.
Moreover, by integrating Manila Bulletin’s trusted news data, we are not only enhancing the app’s functionality but also empowering Filipinos with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. This partnership is a significant step toward bridging the digital divide and ensuring that every Filipino, especially those in marginalized communities, can stay connected and informed. This is just the beginning. Build Initiative is strongly committed to its mission of creating accessible and inclusive futures for all. We will not stop until we see the fruition of our vision of a world where all individuals, regardless of their abilities or background, can thrive in inclusive and barrier-free environments.
We will utilize advocacy, education, and strategic collaborations to dismantle obstacles and enhance equal opportunities. We will transform physical and digital landscapes to empower individuals across all spectrums of ability, and advocate for fair practices and expand educational access to ensure inclusivity as a universal norm.