Technology remains undefeated, though this time, its presence captures the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). In anticipation of the tournament’s 99th season, GMA Integrated News released a statement regarding the integration of male (Marco) and female (Maia) artificial intelligence (AI) reporters to spearhead coverage experience from the “sidelines.”
Meet Maia and Marco — the Philippines’ first AI Sportscasters!
Now that #NCAASeason99 has started, they are here to help our courtside reporters by giving updates in sports!
Follow GMA Integrated News, @GMASportsPH , and GMA Synergy on social media for their exclusive reports. pic.twitter.com/CPMFEyyNVJ
— GMA Integrated News (@gmanews) September 24, 2023
Twitter/X: @gmanews
Per the statement, GMA Network takes a bold step catered to its “commitment to innovation in journalism.” A collaboration between GMA’s media platforms, the makeover intends to diversify sporting coverage across local and international contests, primarily featuring Filipino athletes.
“The introduction of the first AI sportscasters by GMA Integrated News is a groundbreaking initiative that significantly impacts our objective of ‘Mas malaking misyon, mas malawak na paglilingkod sa bayan.' It aligns with our mission to serve all communities within the nation and promote inclusivity in our reporting,” said Senior Vice President and Head of Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.
The recently introduced “Kapuso AI” sportscasters appeared on the vast SM Mall of Asia Arena screen, witnessing the José Rizal University (JRU) Heavy Bombers outlast the defending champions, Colegio de San Juan de Letran (Letran) Squires in overtime. By half-time, spectators bore witness to the live debut of the digital initiative, though by the end of the 45-minute contest, many took to social media their recollections of the experience.
Welp.. there goes my job
— KC Montero 🐴🟢 (@KCMontero) September 24, 2023
Twitter/X: @KCMontero
Hindi kaya next season ng ncaa e ai player n din ang mga maglalaro 😂😂😂
— jay marc (@jaymarc19107987) September 24, 2023
Twitter/X: @jaymarc19107987
I don't think it can replicate or bring the same connection human anchors build between the game and the sports fans that are watching
— multibistanmean (@missingPunch) September 24, 2023
Twitter/X: @missingPunch
baka isunod na si AI version na Mike Enriquez…
with all due respect, wag nyo na balakin pa please langs
— OCEEGEE (@OCEEGEE1) September 24, 2023
Twitter/X: @OCEEGEE1
And of course one has to look "mestiza" and the other a K-Pop idol.
— XdelaCruz ✝️ 🇵🇭 ⚔️ (@XdelaC) September 23, 2023
Twitter/X: @XdelaC
nay. i think AI is only used to support human reporters rather than replace them entirely. human news anchors still play a vital role in journalism, as they bring their unique abilities to analyze, interpret, and provide valuable insights on the news.
— JGCañedo 🇵🇭 (@JGCanedo) September 23, 2023
Twitter/X: @JGCanedo
Why not give opportunity and exposure to real human beings who need these for their growth and development?
— Stelby (@StelSmby) September 23, 2023
Twitter/X: @StelSmby
Human perspective and emotional connection in commentary are irreplaceable.
— Vincent (@rvhub) September 23, 2023
Twitter/X: @rvhub
