‘All Included’: PLDT, Smart Launch AI Workshop to Empower People with Disabilities and Break Digital Barriers

 

Tech for inclusion just got smarter. PLDT and Smart are harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enable more persons with disabilities to access digital innovations. The move expands the PLDT Group’s efforts to reduce inequality and narrow the digital divide.

 

“Technology is the great equalizer,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart. Through AI, we’re creating a future where persons in challenging circumstances can participate in a digitally powered economy, and where ‘All are Included’.”

 

To mark the 14th Global Accessibility Awareness Day, the PLDT Group partnered with long-time ally ATRIEV (Adaptive Technology for Rehabilitation, Integration, and Empowerment of the Visually Impaired) to launch an AI for Accessibility training module tailored for persons with disabilities. ATRIEV is a pioneer in ICT-based solutions for persons with disabilities, those affected by chronic illness, as well as stakeholders working for and with persons with disabilities.

 

“Assistive technology can open doors for persons with disabilities. AI can boost independence among persons with disabilities in performing day-to-day activities. The digital innovation can also help improve communication between learners with disabilities and their teachers or carers,” said Carolina C. Sam, Chief of Operations at ATRIEV.

 

To widen the program’s reach, PLDT and Smart piloted a workshop for trainers attended by SNED (special needs education) teachers from the Department of Education schools divisions of Makati, Taguig City and Pateros (TAPAT), and representatives from the National Commission on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Resources for the Blind, and Parents, Advocates for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC). Using a hands-on, rotating station setup, participants experienced AI-powered apps, guided by instructors who themselves are visually impaired.

 

The module included exploring ‘ChatGPT,’ an AI chatbot that helps in writing, translating, researching, and more, all in human-like text conversation.

 

Participants also explored ‘Seeing AI,’ a mobile app that “speaks” the world -- describing people, objects, text, barcodes, currency, and even emotions – via smartphone camera.

 

The workshop also covered applications for persons with hearing and speech impairments like ‘Live Transcribe’ speech-to-text transcription and ‘Speech Assistant AAC’ text-to-speech app.

 

One station also demonstrated how voice-activated smart speakers can control home devices to turn on lights, play music, set alarms, read out the news, and even answer general knowledge questions.

 

“In our school, we have Deaf learners who are not familiar with Filipino sign language which makes it hard for us to communicate with them. I often use white boards to converse with them but it’s quite cumbersome. Now, with speech assistive applications, these tools will make it easier for me to teach the lessons to my students,” said Karen Rose Sumandal, SNED teacher at Western Bicutan National High School in Taguig.

 

“In our division, SNED teachers often handle students with different disabilities. These intuitive digital applications can help our SNED teachers choose the right tools to communicate more effectively with their students,” said Dr. Osarlo Cantos, EdD, Public Schools District Supervisor/ Division SNED Coordinator, DepEd Schools Division of Makati City.

 

In the past two years, PLDT and Smart’s partnership with ATRIEV has helped train and digitally upskill persons with disabilities, preparing many for employment or entrepreneurship, and transforming them into confident professionals.

 

Through their pioneering IDEATe (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity Advocacy through Technology) program, the PLDT Group reaffirms its mission to uplift the lives of persons in challenging circumstances and to support the country’s pursuit of UNSDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, and UNSDG 10 on Reduced Inequalities.

  

PLDT, Smart envision AI accelerating PH digital transformation

PLDT and its wireless unit Smart welcome the advancement of artificial intelligence or AI as a catalyst for the Philippines’ digital transformation.

The PLDT Group sees the technology vastly improving processes and maximizing efficiency. “AI will accelerate the country’s digital transformation. The technology can automate a wide range of tasks, enhance productivity, and even help in decision-making. But most importantly, AI can help improve governance,” said Angel Redoble, FVP and Chief Information Security Officer of PLDT and Smart.

Redoble says that with the technology’s capability to sift through vast data, AI can flag unusual patterns or anomalies that might suggest fraudulent activity. This is particularly helpful in the banking industry where AI can sound the alarm on unusual transactions or patterns that deviate from a customer’s typical behavior.

“Based on historical data, AI has the capability to predict where fraud or corruption is likely to occur. This allows the organization to put in place preventive measures to address potential vulnerabilities,” explained Redoble.

In public governance, Redoble believes that AI can be used to make public spending and government transactions more transparent by combing through data and presenting them in formats accessible to the public.

PLDT and Smart have employed AI and machine learning on their self-optimizing network, joining global operators in the rapid adoption of the technology. PLDT also recently became the first in the local telco industry to offer better customer care with a voice AI solution, expanding its existing suite of customer service channels.

While AI can vastly improve economies and businesses, Redoble warns that AI can also be used by criminal entities to cause disruptions. The system can be programmed to launch phishing attacks, crack passwords, evade detection and create deep fakes.

“In the end, what matters most is the person behind AI. Humans will always dictate whether AI will be our friend or foe. That’s why it’s important that the good guys learn more about this technology faster than the bad guys do,” added Redoble.

PLDT and Smart's push for AI and other new technologies is anchored in the Group's aspirations of elevating customer experience and enhancing operational excellence. It also underscores the Group's support for the government’s nationwide digitalization efforts as one of the founding members of the Presidential Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) under the Digital Infrastructure Pillar.

This effort also highlights the Group’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), particularly on SDG No. 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Manila Symph AI 30 x 30

Symph, a dynamic software development consulting firm in the Philippines had their #SymphAI30x30 Media Party held in BGC last May 23, 2023. Just a few days earlier, on May 18, 2023, another press conference took place at The Company Cebu. And now, it was Manila's turn to host this remarkable event. 

Symph is dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering understanding of AI's role within society. The event served as a crucial step toward achieving these goals. Symph extends its heartfelt thanks to the media representatives who actively supported the event, aiding in educating the public about the impact of AI on the community and addressing potential challenges. 

Our Chief Operating Officer, Jarrhey dela Peña stated during the event, "We have this theme, Build Openly with AI. We share our AI apps as work-in-progress. More importantly, we invite the community to try the apps and we listen to their feedback. Together, we are building the future we want to create." 

During the press conference, Symph showcased the AI apps developed by its talented team based in Manila. Edson Carreon, our full-stack developer, introduced Grognak, an AI Caveman app that simplifies complex topics for better understanding. This app holds great potential for museums and tech or science-related events, making learning a fun and effortless experience for kids.

Ragan Lamoc, our full-stack developer, demonstrated Fitplanr. It is an AI-powered personal trainer app that generates custom gym programs. By seamlessly integrating with gyms and fitness amenities, Fitplanr empowers both gym-goers and beginners to kickstart their workouts with confidence.

In addition, Jarrhey dela Peña showcased Prompeteer which was developed by Michael Suarez, our AI and Fullstack engineer based in Cebu. Jarrhey personally uses the app daily, which empowers users to create AI-powered chatbots without coding. After Jarrhey demoed the app, media participants were able to create their own AI apps within minutes. Prompeteer offers businesses an opportunity to showcase their brand persona through an AI app, helping customers make informed purchase decisions through engaging conversations. 

Symph is excited to captivate audiences with its upcoming AI events and initiatives. The company is dedicated to reshaping the AI landscape, constantly exploring new horizons and pushing the boundaries of technological advancements. With their unwavering commitment to #BuildOpenlyWithAI, Symph invites everyone to join them on this exciting journey. Get ready to be inspired and amazed!

About Symph

Symph is a software development consulting firm in the Philippines where they build web and mobile apps for clients such as 500 startups, government agencies, and even the World Bank. With their current AI app initiatives, their team is dedicated to making AI accessible and enjoyable for everyone, pushing the limits of technology, and creating a smarter, more connected future.

Our team of developers, designers, project managers, marketers, product owners, and QA pros are committed to crafting AI apps that are not just functional, but also fun for everyone.

We want to inspire and empower people to embrace and reap the benefits of Artificial Intelligence. Want to see the cool AI apps we've built so far? Check out https://www.symph.ai/ 

Keep an eye out for more of our AI apps we will continue to build!

Know more about Symph here: https://www.symph.co/

IPv6 and 5G Technology to Feature in the 4th Internet of Things Summit 2019

Manila, Philippines, The biggest Internet experts gathering will convene at the 4th IoT Summit PH which is co-located with the 2nd IPv6 + 5G Global Summit on a two-day event in Manila on September 18-19, 2019 at SMX Convention Center, SM Aura Premier, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Taguig City.

The co-located events is made possible in collaboration with Internet Things (IoT) Summit PH, IPv6 Forum Philippines and the IEEE 5G . It will showcase tech-based companies and start-ups at the exhibits while also offering professionals and participants the chance to meet and talk with international tech experts at the conference proper.
This year, the 4th IoT Exhibition and conference will focus on 5G and IPv6 implementations, deployment strategies, and challenges met among participating countries. The speakers are 5G and IoT experts coming from Asia & Europe headed by the President of the Global IPv6 Forum and IEEE 5G IoT, Mr. Latif Ladid.

Devices and services enabled by IoT is expected to hit a major surge as the tech world and researchers work around the impending saturation of IPv4 address, as more and more smart gadgets connect to the internet daily. The development of 5G networks together with the IPv6 is expected to push international tech innovators to deploy new ways of accessing the internet and implementing IoT services.

The IoT Summit Ph is an annual gathering of tech-based entrepreneurs, researchers, and professionals where they scout for exciting new ventures and development in cutting-edge technology to stay ahead of competition and prepare for new business horizons.

“5G over IoT will power the next internet. With the implementation and deployment of IPv6, the network infrastructure will benefit the global connectivity and it’s a good start for the Philippines as we are being valued by our global alliance in this initiative to make the Philippines ready for the future” said Medel Ramirez, President of IPv6 Forum Philippines.

“We also want to present the importance of 5G in of Internet of Things, it is more than a technology but it is a backbone for IoT applications such as Virtual Reality, Smart Cities, Smart Homes and others” according to Elaine Cedillo added, the Founder and Project of IoT Summit Philippines.
“5G will become mainstream, and businesses need to start now with developing and reimagining services and products to leverage 5G's superior capabilities and that includes the IoT deployment, Cedillo added.

The 4th IoT Summit PH is organized by Redwizard Events Technology, in partnership with IEEE 5G IoT and IPv6 Forum Philippines and supported by PLDT Enterprise.
This year, IoT Summit PH will also conduct network engineering workshops previously offered abroad in partnership with Sixcape.. The training is comparable to Cisco CCNA, but all related to IPv6.

IoT and IPv6 + 5G Global Summit aims to promote and empower IoT ecosystem and 5G Adaptation in the Philippines. Interested participants can take advantage of the Early bird rate promos and discounts for groups or corporate, and are also available for a limited time.
For more info, you may visit their website at http://iotsummit.ph. You can also check out, http://philv6forum.org/ or https://www.ieee.org. For further inquiries, you may contact the Redwizard Events Secretariat at (02) 2189023 or at 09209734926 and 09179048777.

First Ever Smart Robot Debuts at SM

Taking mall-going experiences to a whole new level, the country’s first ever in-mall smart customer service robot debuts at SM Supermalls during 1st quarter of 2019, in partnership with New Kinpo Group – a Taiwan-based tech company. Your newest in-mall, go-to guide will provide mall directions, deals, promos, and other new happenings to watch out for at SM! 

“In pursuit of bringing family fun experiences for all, SM is excited to bring to customers another fun innovation that aims to transform shopping and retail experiences in the country,” said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls COO.

The New Kinpo Group (NKG) is a Taiwan-based technology company that specializes in global electronic and original design manufacturing services. This tech giant is known for its developments in robotics, smart-home appliances, and electronic beauty products among others. 

Be the first to experience the initial run of SM’s newest smart robot at SM Megamall. Truly, shopping has never been this fun and interactive at SM Supermalls!

For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com. 

Beat the Summer Heat with LG's FREE Installation along with Every Purchase of an LG Dual Cool with Dual Inverter Split Type Air Conditioner

Hot weather getting you down? LG got you covered! Upgrade to LG Dual Cool with Dual Inverter today and cool down without worrying for your electricity bill. What’s more, for every purchase of an LG Dual Cool with Dual Inverter Split Type Air Conditioner, you are entitled to free installation service* right at your home by an LG Authorized Service Center. Avail of this promo today by visiting any of the participating authorized dealers. Promo is available for straight cash and card purchases.

Don’t let the warm days get you down – start chilling with LG now!

LG V30+: Showing the stories of Marawi

As the violence settles down in Marawi, its denizens’ stories of struggle and personal tragedy are finally starting to come to light.

To authentically capture these stories, CNN Philippines, in partnership with Havas Media Ortega, traveled to ground zero of the conflict, where they were given an unprecedented 45 minutes to explore the war-torn region and get a firsthand glimpse at what happened to the once-bustling city center. They were accompanied by Moro millennials from MARADECA, a local non-profit that had been sheltering refugees from the city. LG Electronics loaned out two units of its flagship smartphone, the V30+, given to the respondents so that they could capture a unique perspective on the ground.

While CNN provided traditional news media coverage of the site, the Moro respondents, equipped with the V30+ and its high-end camera, gave a more deeply personal look. Norliah Deron, a young woman who lost her home in the siege, captured a beautiful photo of the lake near the city, across which she used to gaze as a child. She also took selfies of her and fellow Moros whose lives were disrupted by the war, eyes red and stained with tears but still hopeful for the future. Norjanah Cosain, a millennial mother and schoolteacher who evacuated her home along with her five children, took photos of the shacks that serve as the temporary homes of more than 30 families. 

Through the lens of the V30+, these young women were able to not just tell, but show their story to the world, every detail captured in every shot. Their photos bear silent testimony to not only the terrors of war, but also the indefatigable human spirit, ready to pick themselves up once more even after such tragedy. 

*This is Press Release

denizens’ stories of struggle and personal tragedy are finally starting to come to light.

To authentically capture these stories, CNN Philippines, in partnership with Havas Media Ortega, traveled to ground zero of the conflict, where they were given an unprecedented 45 minutes to explore the war-torn region and get a firsthand glimpse at what happened to the once-bustling city center. They were accompanied by Moro millennials from MARADECA, a local non-profit that had been sheltering refugees from the city. LG Electronics loaned out two units of its flagship smartphone, the V30+, given to the respondents so that they could capture a unique perspective on the ground.

*This is Press Release

LG: Artificial Intelligence will run more Homes in 2018

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has long been a hotly debated topic, with some pundits claiming that it poses a grave threat to humanity while others believe that AI systems can help humans improve productivity and conditions around them. For technology company LG Electronics (LG), AI is being harnessed to achieve the latter.

The recently concluded Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2018 in Las Vegas saw a smorgasbord of personal computing wearables, smartphones and home appliances. And LG, through its Open Partnership, Open Platform and Open Connectivity strategy, is an emerging leader in this exciting field. The brand also showcased a diverse lineup of smart products that shows the world that LG is working to move technology forward while improving daily life for consumers worldwide in 2018 and beyond.

LG’s extensive portfolio of smart appliances comes with Google assistant capabilities. As of this writing, there are nearly 90 LG smart appliances that seek to deliver a simple yet future-ready connected smart home experience.

Some of the price competitive Wi-Fi connected home appliances in LG’s roster include: washing machines and dryers, refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, vacuums and air purifiers, among others. With these appliances in the home, domestic life becomes an interactive and intuitive experience.

The beauty of the smart home lies in the hands-free operation of these appliances with the help of Google Assistant. Homeowners can now use simple voice commands on their phones to check the time remaining during wash cycles, for example, or turn off their range after cooking. Running a household with this technology is made simpler and more convenient for the on-the-go lifestyles of today. Setup is user-friendly and convenient with the free LG SmartThinQ app, which allows users to control the entire lineup of LG smart appliances.

While not all smart appliances will be available yet in the Philippines, there are those that already made its way to a number of Filipino homes, such as the LG InstaView Door-in-DoorTM (DID). This smart refrigerator model allows users easy access to favorite food items by simply knocking on the mirrored glass panel twice. This innovation reduces cold air loss by up to 41%, making food stored in the refrigerator stay fresh longer. LG InstaView DID is also equipped with LG SmartThinQ. This allows users to set the refrigerator temperature, control HygieneFRESH+ and diagnose the refrigerator with a simple tap on the user’s smartphone.

But with further AI developments in the horizon, LG’s smart home appliances will be better equipped to predict the user’s needs. Its adaptive technology interprets usage habits and data to the point that LG smart appliances will know when to alert owners to order filter refills for the refrigerator or air purifier, as well as troubleshoot lint build-up in the dryer.

With these innovations, the future of artificial intelligence and smart homes indeed looks bright.

Experience LG’s innovative tech solutions here in the Philippines by visiting any LG authorized dealer.