SLSU-TO Lab High student places 2nd at NSPC 2023 S&T writing, explores robots feelings for winning piece
Rainne Benedict V. Geraldo (2nd from the left) and coach Dr. Joseph Añavesa (2nd from the right) pose for a photo as they receive their respective certificate of recognition.
Representing Region VIII, Rainne Benedict V. Geraldo emerged this year as 2nd place in Science and Technology Writing during the week-long event of the National School Press Conference (NSPC) 2023 held in Cagayan de Oro.
His piece entitled Should Robots Have Feelings? discusses the controversial topic of whether artificial intelligence (AI) and robots should be equipped with human-like emotions, compassion, and empathy.
In his write-up, Geraldo emphasized the increasing popularity and applications of AI and robots in various sectors like commerce, industry, residential, and medical fields.
"As AI becomes more advanced and capable of making decisions, people worry about the potential dehumanization caused by these machines and their potential to take over human jobs," Geraldo wrote.
He concluded that AI/robots and consciousness are complicated subjects, saying that "the best way to answer this dilemma is by looking at ourselves."
His thought-provoking work encourages contemplation on the complex relationship between AI, robots, and human consciousness, shedding light on the evolving world of technology and its societal impact.
Geraldo, a Grade 11-STEM student from Southern Leyte State University-Tomas Oppus Laboratory High School, represented Region VIII in Science and Technology Writing competition after his piece on a comprehensive exploration of typhoon risks in the Philippines declared as champion at the regional level in Eastern Samar.
A certificate of recognition was given to Geraldo’s coach, Dr. Joseph Añavesa. He described Geraldo’s achievement as “an inspiration to young journalists and writers.”
This is the first time that NSPC was held face-to-face after the two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 5,000 delegates from all over the Philippines participated in the said event.
The Department of Education (DepEd)'s Division of Cagayan de Oro, in collaboration with the Region X office, hosted NSPC from July 17 to 21, centered around the theme From Campus Journalism to Real-World Journalism: Shaping Minds from Schools to Societies.