Kagay-anon Media Professionals Explore AI’s Role in Journalism

Kagay-anon media practitioners, information officers, and aspiring journalists recently joined a practical workshop on “AI in the Newsroom: Productivity, Ethics & Combating Misinformation”. The session was spearheaded by the Cagayan de Oro Press Club and co-organized by PLDT and Smart Communications, Inc., in collaboration with Xavier University - Development Communication Department, reaffirming their shared commitment to responsible journalism and innovation in the digital age. 

"Responsible journalism is essential in the digital age. As we in PLDT-Smart continue to champion digital inclusion and internet safety, we wanted to integrate media professionals into our programs. With this workshop, we affirm our commitment to empowering journalists with the necessary tools to navigate this evolving landscape," said Roby Alampay, FVP and Group Head of Public Engagement at PLDT and Smart. 

Led by journalist, technologist, and media advisor Jaemark Tordecilla, the workshop tackled real-world use cases of AI in journalism from smarter research and fact-checking, to writing, editing, and even creating multimedia content. Participants also explored chatbot tools, AI writing assistants, and how to use these responsibly in the newsroom.

While AI presents powerful possibilities, media leaders also reminded fellow journalists that human input and intention are still crucial. “AI is just a tool after all. It’s garbage in, garbage out. If you don’t know how to prompt ChatGPT, then you’ll still get a useless article,” said Cong B. Corrales, VP for Print at the CDO Press Club. He emphasized that while AI can crunch massive data sets quickly, it can't replace the expertise and nuances of a human writer.

This initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

Cebu Journalists Sharpen AI, Media Training Skills

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes newsrooms, journalists are exploring ways to adapt. In Cebu, local journalists and communications educators gathered for a full-day workshop designed to equip them with AI skills, while reinforcing the values of ethical and responsible journalism.

“This workshop aims to help address pressing concerns and challenges which community journalists face daily in their work, such as digital safety, mental wellness, as well as challenges brought forth by AI and its impact on the newsroom,” said Atty. Maria Jane Paredes of STET–Women in Cebu Media.

The event was organized through a collaboration between STET–Women in Cebu Media, International Media Support (IMS), the Asian Center for Journalism (ACFJ) at the Ateneo de Manila University, PLDT Inc. (PLDT), and Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart).

Journalist, technologist, and media advisor Jaemark Tordecilla offered participants a deeper insight into AI and how it can support journalists in their daily newsroom work, including tasks like summarizing information, generating story ideas, and transforming content, among others. The discussion underscored that, while AI can enhance efficiency and creativity, it still requires responsible use and careful review for accuracy and fairness.

Participants also learned practical tips and tools from Innopub Media Co-founder Max Limpag to protect their data online and ensure safety in the digital space. Limpag stressed that digital security is not just a technical concern but a crucial responsibility for journalists to establish and maintain trust.

Moreover, the workshop featured Bidlisiw Foundation Inc. Executive Director Pamela Uy, who emphasized the importance of self-awareness and mindfulness in taking care of one’s mental well-being. This is essential in the field of journalism, where the work is demanding and constantly evolving.

“We're committed to empowering our stakeholders, and that includes the media. Hopefully, this workshop helps journalists become more resilient in the digital age,” said Roby Alampay, FVP and head of Public Engagement and Corporate Communications Group at PLDT and Smart.

This effort underscores PLDT and Smart’s commitment to supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education, Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.