GMA Network made history anew as it debuted the country's first Artificial Intelligence (AI) sportscasters, Maia and Marco, during the broadcast of the opening ceremony of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99 men's basketball tournament held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena this afternoon, Sept. 24.

"Meet Maia and Marco — the Philippines’ first AI Sportscasters! "Now that #NCAASeason99 has started, they are here to help our courtside reporters by giving updates in sports!" wrote the GMA Integrated News on X, formerly known as Twitter.

But the debut of the two AI sportscasters was met with mixed reactions. Some comments:

"AI is not good... We are not lacking good sports journalists..restore some humanity."

"Wala ka emo-emosyon. We want real people reporting. Wala na bang nag aapply? Jusko."

"This is actually good! Can't wait to see how this technology continues to elevate the sports viewing experience!"

"No emotions. Well, there goes my future job."

"Love it!!!"

"Last nyo na yan please"

"AI sportscasters have the potential to be a valuable addition to the world of sports broadcasting. Their ability to swiftly present statistics, game records, and historical data can enhance the viewer's understanding of the game. However, it's crucial to remember their role."

GMA Network explained that the presence of Maia and Marco is not meant to replace the seasoned broadcasters of the Kapuso network.

"Maia and Marco are AI presenters, not journalists; they can't replace our seasoned broadcasters and colleagues who are the heart of our organization," Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, GMA Network's Senior Vice President and Head of Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy, emphasized after the network launched AI-generated sportscasters as part of their #NCAASeason99 coverage.