Richard Gutierrez has addressed the controversy surrounding the alleged use of artificial intelligence or AI in the hit action-drama "Blood vs. Duty."
We spoke with the actor recently and he confirmed that the production does make use of AI, but stressed that it is limited to post-production work aimed at improving scenes that have already been filmed.
"Magandang napaguusapan 'yan 'cause I think AI really helps. I mean, with us, nakatulong siya sa post (production) talaga in terms of improving certain scenes that could have been difficult to do and time-consuming," he said.
The use of AI in the series has sparked debate on social media.
While some viewers welcomed the technology as a step forward for local television production, others raised concerns that increasing reliance on AI could eventually affect opportunities for visual effects artists and other members of the production workforce.
For Richard, however, adapting to technological advances is inevitable.
"Well, it's here and I think, it's not going away. So, we should be open to the idea. We should be able to adapt to the technology," he said.
He made clear though, "We should make sure that industry workers are protected somehow. I think there should be limitations in its use."
His remarks come as "Blood vs. Duty" enters its final two weeks on air.
The action-drama, produced by JRB Creative Production and directed by FM Reyes, Bjoy Balagtas, and Rico Navarro, stars Richard alongside Gerald Anderson, Barbie Imperial, and Baron Geisler.
Despite the controversy surrounding the show's use of AI, Richard said the cast and crew remain focused on delivering a satisfying conclusion to the series.
"Katatapos lang namin mag-shoot. And I am really proud with what we came up with. Pinagtrabahuan at pinaghandaan talaga namin ang finale. I think fans of the show are in for an exciting ride," he said.
"Blood vs. Duty" airs weeknights, 8 PM on the Kapamilya Channel and ALLTV.
It is also available for streaming on iWant and Netflix.