Filipino Innovators Spotlight AI Achievements at New York PCG Forum

Filipino AI professionals and enthusiasts share their insights during the panel discussion at the ‘Advancing Filipinnovation’ forum. (Photo by Sherlyn Roxas)

The Philippine Consulate General in New York hosted “Advancing Filipinnovation: A Forum on Filipinos Shaping the Future of Artificial Intelligence (AI)” on June 24 at the Philippine Center in New York. This event featured significant Filipino contributions and leadership in the rapidly evolving field of AI.

 

In his welcome remarks, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile emphasized the importance of innovation and the pioneering role of Filipinos. He stated, “AI represents a fundamental shift in how we interact with the world and revolutionizes industries. It is crucial that Filipinos are not just participants but pioneers in this rapidly evolving field.”

 

The forum’s speakers shared their experiences and insights on various aspects of AI. Ms. Angela Mascarenas, Co-Founder of Vokel AI and The AI Furnace, discussed deepfake detection for AI voice fraud and misinformation. Mr. Ryan Carl Yu, Product Manager at Google Cloud AI, shared insights on the intersection of data science, business strategy, and product management. Ms. Michaela Ternasky-Holland, XR Director and Creative Strategist, explored socially and culturally impactful stories using immersive and interactive technology. Mr. Gary Reloj, CEO and Founder of Masaya.io, highlighted modern digital narratives and his entrepreneurial journey. Mr. Prince Gregorio, Communications Officer at UNICEF, shared his experience participating in the Microsoft Artificial Intelligence Challenge, where his team won the grand prize.

 

The panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Gregorio, covered the panelists’ aspirations for the future of AI and the leadership roles Filipinos can undertake in this field. They addressed the ethical use of AI, ensuring responsible advancements with broader societal impacts, and examined AI’s potential repercussions on the Philippines’ BPO industry, including necessary adaptations for industry sustainability. The discussions also emphasized the critical role of governments in AI regulation, balancing innovation with ethical considerations and public safety. During the open forum, the audience posed insightful questions about AI’s impacts on various sectors, such as human resources, journalism, and media, and its potential use in the upcoming U.S. elections.

 

The forum marked the third installment of a series of gatherings on Filipinnovation organized by the Philippine Consulate General in New York, in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center in New York and Mr. Earl Valencia of the National Innovation Council of the Philippines. This series aims to showcase Filipino talent in global innovation and underscore the importance of technological advancements. 

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