AI becoming a real threat

PREVIOUSLY, I HAVE written about the possible effects of the emerging usability of what is called artificial intelligence or AI on some of our country’s industries, notably, the business process outsourcing or BPO.

Now, the Department of Finance (DOF) has weighed in on the issue and discussed thoroughly the effects of AI on certain businesses in the country and with reference to the Train law (Tax Reforms for Acceleration and Inclusion).

In a press release dated Sunday, November 4, 2018, it was stated that: it is the view of the Finance Secretary Carlos Domingues that the BPO industry is more threatened by AI than any tax measures that may be passed.

Dominguez made this statement in the midst of concerns that the second package of the Comprehensive Tax Reforms which focus on lowering corporate income tax and rationalizing fiscal incentives will effectively remove the perks and other attractive incentives extended to BPO companies.

The government, therefore, should prepare for the advance of AI which is rapidly being developed worldwide and is certainly to hit hard the BPO industry.

The framers of the CTRP should always factor in the side effects of this law on all sectors of business and industry. They should look far ahead instead of making short-term stopgaps.

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The mayors of San Simon and Minalin should take immediate steps to repair the badly-damaged section of the CDCP-MacArthur Highway which has deteriorated because of incessant floods and by heavily-laden trucks.

Traffic builds up in this area causing serious inconvenience to motorists and commuters. The mayors should act now before the election ban sets in.

* * * Commendations were given to PESO Mabalacat City for being Best National PESO for component city, two times in a row. Next year’s award will install it to the Hall of Fame. Arlene Tolentino, Arlene Castillo and Alex Inza Cruz of Dole Region 3 attended the awarding rites during the city government’s flag ceremony last Monday, November 5, 2018.

The city government of Mabalacat likewise should be applauded for getting another Seal of Good Local Governance this time under the able leadership of Mayor Crisostomo C. Garbo. Mabuhay!

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SM City Clark continues to give the public spectacular entertainment via its Pyro Fest held November 3 and featured entries from Brazil Mexico and Peru. The fest will also be held November 10, 17 and 24, 2018.

I’d like to thank Jean and Annika of SM San Fernando Downtown for the lunch extended me November 6. Also, thanks to Engr. Junias Eusebio and Kaye of SM Pampanga for accommodating me the previous day. Junias, an AVP, is now the Officer-in-Charge for North and Luzon cluster of SM.

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Happy birthday to Normita Cruz, Branch Manager of Social Security System located at Marquee Mall, Angeles City and to Emil Carreon of NBN PTV4 on November 5, 2018.

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Bong Garcia, mall manager of SM Telabastagan announces the mall’s hosting of a Grand Christmas Launch at the Event Center for a holiday experience on November 9, 2018. Enjoy, guys!