Strengthening Journalism Through Responsible AI
Technology delivers its greatest impact when it serves the public good. For the media, responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance accuracy, efficiency, and depth in storytelling—allowing journalists to focus more on truth, context, and accountability. Recognizing this, PLDT and Smart Communications continue to support Philippine journalism by enabling digital transformation among media organizations in Mindanao.
Recently, PLDT and Smart turned over AI-in-a-Box packages to selected Mindanao media partners, equipping newsrooms with modern AI tools and reliable connectivity designed to boost productivity while reinforcing ethical, human-led reporting.
What’s Inside the AI-in-a-Box Package
Each AI-in-a-Box kit is designed to support real-world newsroom operations. The package includes:
- Smart 5G WiFi connectivity for fast and reliable internet access
- Load cards to ensure uninterrupted connectivity
- Access to a premium ChatGPT subscription to assist with research, writing, editing, and content planning
With these tools, media organizations can streamline workflows, scale digital content production, and improve operational efficiency—without compromising editorial integrity.
Mindanao Media Leaders Welcome the Initiative
For Mindanao-based newsrooms, the support comes at a crucial time as legacy media adapts to digital-first operations.
Gladys Chu, CEO of Mindanao Gold Star Daily, shared that the AI-in-a-Box package provides timely and practical support as their newsroom navigates digital transformation. She noted that AI tools will help strengthen research, storytelling, and content planning in a responsible, human-led manner, while also assisting in data analysis for better organizational management.
Meanwhile, Mindanao Times Editor-in-Chief Joel Escovilla highlighted Smart’s long-standing partnership with community press organizations. He emphasized that the AI-in-a-Box initiative further demonstrates Smart’s commitment to media literacy, training, and newsroom innovation.
Reliable Connectivity for Uninterrupted News Production
Beyond AI tools, connectivity remains critical for journalism. Escovilla also pointed out the importance of the Smart 5G WiFi router included in the package, noting that it provides essential redundancy in case of LAN internet disruptions—an important safeguard for newsrooms that rely on constant online access.
With AI-assisted content generation, Mindanao Times also aims to scale its social media campaigns more efficiently, helping stories reach wider and more engaged audiences.
Building AI Literacy in the Newsroom
Prior to the distribution of AI-in-a-Box kits, media professionals from Cagayan de Oro and Davao participated in the workshop “AI in the Newsroom: Productivity, Ethics & Combating Misinformation.” The session was led by journalist, technologist, and media advisor Jaemark Tordecilla.
The workshop explored practical newsroom applications of AI, including:
- Research and background support
- Fact-checking assistance
- Writing and editing workflows
- Multimedia content creation
- Ethical use of chatbots and AI writing tools
These discussions emphasized that AI should support—not replace—journalistic judgment and responsibility.
Supporting Innovation and Inclusive Infrastructure
This initiative aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. By expanding access to AI-powered tools and reliable connectivity, PLDT and Smart are helping bridge the digital divide and strengthen the Philippines’ information ecosystem—especially in regions outside Metro Manila.
For Mindanao media organizations, this support represents a meaningful step toward sustainable, future-ready journalism.
