Originally published in Manila Bulletin The Philippine Constitution guarantees citizens’ freedom of expression, thought, and participation. These are also assured through the country’s acceptance of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which seeks to protect civil and political rights including freedom of expression and information. We can express our ideas and opinions through speech, in writing, or by way of art, among others. However, we suppress this right when we fail to support the continued use and development of indigenous languages. The United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples emphasized that: “To be able to communicate in one’s language is fundamental to human dignity and freedom of expression.” Without the ability to express one’s self, or when the use of one’s own language becomes limited, the right to demand an individual’s most basic rights—such as food, water, shelter, healthy environment, education, employment—is also being subdued. For our indigenous peoples, this becomes even more crucial as it also affects the other rights that they have been fighting for, such as freedom from discrimination, right to equal opportunity and treatment, right to self-determination, among others. In relation to this, the UN General Assembly declared 2022-2032 as the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (IDIL). Its aim is to “leave no one behind and no one outside” and is aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In presenting the Global Action Plan of the IDIL, the UNESCO underscored that, “The right of free unimpeded choice of language use, expression, and opinion as well as self-determination and active engagement in public life without fear of discrimination is a prerequisite for inclusiveness and equality as key conditions for the creation of open and participatory societies.” The Global Action Plan seeks to enlarge the functional scope of indigenous languages usage across society. It suggests ten interlinked themes that can help preserve, revitalize and promote indigenous languages: (1) quality education and lifelong learning; (2) the use of indigenous language and knowledge to eradicate hunger; (3) establishing favorable conditions for digital empowerment and the right of expression; (4) appropriate indigenous language frameworks designed to offer better health provision; (5) access to justice and availability of public services; (6) sustaining indigenous languages as a vehicle of living heritage and culture; (7) biodiversity conservation; (8) economic growth through enhanced decent jobs; (9) gender equality and women empowerment; and, (10) long-term public-private partnerships for the preservation of indigenous languages. The main idea is to integrate and mainstream indigenous languages across all socio-cultural, economic, environmental, legal and political domains and strategic agendas. By doing so, we support increased language fluency, vitality and growth of new language users. Ultimately, we must strive to create safe environments where indigenous peoples can express themselves using the language of their choice, without fear of being judged, discriminated, or misunderstood. We must embrace indigenous languages as integral to the holistic and inclusive development of our societies. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in LinkedIn In today’s hyper-connected world, artificial intelligence (AI) knows no boundaries. It’s transforming industries, breaking down communication barriers, and reshaping global interactions in ways we couldn’t have imagined just a decade ago. With its ability to transcend linguistic and geographic divides, AI stands as a testament to technology’s limitless potential. Yet, while AI races ahead, thousands of the world’s languages are quietly disappearing. As a member of the Karay-a ethnolinguistic group in the Philippines, I’ve seen this crisis unfold firsthand. Our language, like many others, is at risk of fading from everyday life. If AI knows no boundaries, why should language preservation? The Language Extinction Crisis Currently, over 40% of the world’s 7,000 languages are endangered, and many could vanish within a few decades. This isn’t just an issue affecting remote or isolated communities—it’s a global crisis impacting minority languages everywhere, including Karay-a and Baybayin, an ancient Filipino script that’s nearly forgotten. Last month, I had the privilege of attending One Young World Indigenous Youth Day in Montreal, Canada, as an Impact AI Scholar of The Brandtech Group . There, I spoke with over 100 indigenous youth leaders from across the globe. What struck me was how universal the experience of language endangerment is. Every leader—from North America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and beyond—confirmed that their native languages and cultural identities are at risk. This is not a localized problem; it’s a global phenomenon. Just as AI transcends borders, the erosion of our linguistic heritage knows no boundaries either. In my own community, Karay-a is slowly being overshadowed by dominant languages like Tagalog and English. Fewer young people speak it fluently, and with each passing year, traditional stories, songs, and our unique worldview slip further into obscurity. The same is true for Baybayin, a pre-colonial script that’s now largely outside of mainstream consciousness. It’s time we recognize that just as AI can reshape industries, it can also offer a solution to this crisis. AI and Language Preservation: A New Frontier The same technology that powers real-time translations and personalized communication tools can serve as a lifeline for endangered languages. AI, with its capacity to process and analyze vast amounts of data, is uniquely suited to catalog, preserve, and even revitalize languages on the brink of extinction. Platforms like NightOwlGPT  are leading the way by offering real-time translation, interactive learning modules, and cultural insights for endangered languages. For languages like Karay-a and Baybayin, AI presents a powerful opportunity to make these linguistic treasures accessible, not just to native speakers, but to a global audience. This ensures that these languages continue to evolve and remain relevant in the digital age. NightOwlGPT Incorporating endangered languages into AI-powered platforms is crucial for ensuring they aren’t left behind. By leveraging AI, we can document these languages, create digital learning resources, and provide them on platforms where younger, tech-savvy generations can interact with them. AI has the potential to breathe new life into endangered languages, making them part of the modern conversation rather than relics of the past. Breaking Boundaries: Why Language Preservation Should Know No Limits Just as AI transcends geographic and temporal barriers, language preservation efforts should also know no limits. In today’s digital age, a language spoken by only a few hundred people can reach millions. The global digital landscape, driven by AI, allows us to scale language preservation efforts in unprecedented ways. One of AI’s most exciting potentials is its adaptability. As AI systems learn more languages, they create a ripple effect, spreading knowledge and increasing the use of even the rarest tongues. This can help prevent the linguistic homogenization that threatens to erase thousands of languages from human history. Moreover, AI can empower indigenous communities to lead their own language revitalization efforts. Many groups are already using digital tools to document and share their languages, and AI can further amplify these efforts by providing automated transcription, translation, and content creation. This ensures that languages are not only preserved but also evolve and remain in use for future generations. The Economic and Social Imperative Language preservation is not just a cultural issue—it is an economic and social necessity. As the global economy becomes more integrated, linguistic diversity becomes a valuable asset. In sectors like healthcare, education, and international development, being able to communicate in multiple languages is critical for outreach and inclusivity. AI can help bridge these language gaps, providing real-time translation services that enable marginalized communities to access vital resources. For indigenous groups like mine, ensuring that Karay-a or Baybayin remains part of the global conversation opens doors in education, business, and governance. It ensures that our voices are not drowned out by dominant languages and that our cultural contributions continue to enrich global diversity. A Call to Action As we move into a future driven by AI, we must ask ourselves: if AI knows no boundaries, why should language preservation? The tools we have at our disposal can do more than revolutionize industries—they can also preserve the world’s most vulnerable languages. But this will require a collective commitment from governments, technology developers, and communities. At One Young World Indigenous Youth Day, the sense of urgency shared by 100 indigenous youth leaders was unmistakable: our languages are more than just words. They are the embodiment of who we are—our histories and our futures. By harnessing the power of AI, we can ensure that these languages are not only preserved but flourish in a world that often overlooks their value. Technology is neutral. It reflects the priorities we set. If we value diversity, culture, and human heritage, we must use AI to safeguard languages before they disappear. The future speaks many languages, and AI can ensure that they all have a voice. Let’s make sure none of them are left behind. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Apolitical Image credit: Rohit Tandon on Unsplash As we move deeper into the 21st century, the world is becoming more connected, with technology enabling instant communication across borders. But while we celebrate this global interconnectedness, an often-overlooked tragedy is unfolding—languages are disappearing at an alarming rate. As we build a future that promises to be multilingual, we must ask ourselves: will your language survive? Today, over 7,000 languages are spoken worldwide, yet more than 40% of them are endangered. Linguists predict that many of these languages may vanish in the next few decades, and with them, we lose a wealth of cultural knowledge, traditions, and history. This is not a theoretical problem; it is one that affects millions of people, especially indigenous and minority communities. Each language lost is a community silenced, a culture erased. The Power of Language Languages are more than just tools for communication. They are the threads that bind communities together, allowing individuals to share experiences, traditions, and values. For many, language is central to their identity and their connection to ancestors and the land they inhabit. When a language disappears, it is not only words that are lost; entire systems of thought, stories, and ways of understanding the world vanish as well. Consider the Karay-a language, spoken by my own community in the Philippines. It is one of many Philippine languages at risk of fading from daily life. Growing up, I heard my grandparents tell stories in Karay-a, stories that are difficult to translate into Tagalog or English because the cultural context is embedded so deeply in the language. As fewer young people in my community learn to speak Karay-a fluently, the risk of losing these stories becomes all too real. This is a pattern repeating itself across the globe. In Australia, many Aboriginal languages are down to just a handful of speakers. In Latin America, languages like Ayapaneco are barely surviving, with the last fluent speakers struggling to pass on their knowledge. Each of these languages represents an irreplaceable piece of human history and wisdom. Why Languages Are Disappearing The forces driving language extinction are complex, but they all point to one central issue: the prioritization of dominant languages over minority ones. In many countries, languages like English, Mandarin, and Spanish are seen as gateways to better economic opportunities, education, and upward mobility. As a result, speakers of minority languages often feel pressure to abandon their native tongues in favor of those that offer greater prospects. This shift is exacerbated by globalization and urbanization. In urban centers, where people from different regions and linguistic backgrounds converge, dominant languages naturally take precedence in education, media, and commerce. Minority languages are often relegated to the home, where they are spoken less frequently with each generation. Additionally, colonial legacies have played a significant role in marginalizing indigenous languages. Throughout history, colonial powers imposed their own languages on conquered territories, suppressing the use of local languages. Even in post-colonial nations, the effects of these policies are still felt, as government institutions and educational systems often favor the colonial language over indigenous ones. The Consequences of Language Loss When a language disappears, we lose more than just words—we lose a worldview. Indigenous languages, in particular, are closely tied to the natural environment. They often contain rich knowledge about local ecosystems, medicinal plants, and sustainable agricultural practices. Without these languages, we risk losing valuable insights into how humans can live in harmony with nature. There is also a psychological cost to language loss. For many indigenous people, their language is a source of pride and identity. When a language dies, it can create feelings of dislocation and alienation, as younger generations grow up disconnected from the linguistic and cultural heritage of their ancestors. This loss of identity can have far-reaching effects, particularly in communities already struggling with marginalization. A Future Where All Languages Thrive Despite these challenges, there is hope. The future does not have to be one where only a few dominant languages remain. We can ensure that the world of tomorrow speaks many languages, but this will require concerted efforts from individuals, communities, and governments alike. One of the most promising tools in this fight is technology. In recent years, artificial intelligence and digital platforms have begun to play an essential role in documenting and preserving endangered languages. Apps and AI-powered translation tools can provide users with instant access to minority languages, making them easier to learn and more relevant in today’s interconnected world. Platforms like NightOwlGPT are taking this approach, offering resources to help preserve and promote endangered languages through real-time translation and cultural education. However, technology alone cannot solve this problem. It is equally important that language preservation efforts are rooted in the communities themselves. Revitalization programs that involve native speakers in teaching, documenting, and promoting their language are more likely to succeed. Governments must also prioritize the inclusion of minority languages in education, media, and public life to ensure that they remain vibrant and living parts of society. Choosing the Future of Our Languages We stand at a critical juncture. The future could be one where thousands of languages are lost forever, or it could be one where linguistic diversity flourishes, allowing all voices to be heard. The choice is ours. If we act now, we can ensure that the next generation inherits not just a handful of global languages, but the full richness of humanity’s linguistic heritage. The future will speak many languages—let’s make sure yours is one of them. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Apolitical Image credit: Helena Pfisterer on Unsplash My name is Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo , and I come from the Karay-a ethnolinguistic group, one of the indigenous communities in the Philippines. Growing up, I was fortunate that my family made it a priority for me to learn and speak Karay-a, ensuring I stayed connected to my roots. However, not everyone in my community has had the same experience. Over the years, I’ve seen fewer people—especially younger generations—speak our language fluently. The pressure to adopt more dominant languages like Filipino and English has caused Karay-a, like many other minority languages, to fade. What is happening to Karay-a is part of a larger, global crisis. According to estimates, up to 95% of the world’s 7,000 living languages are at risk of extinction by the end of this century. When a language dies, it is more than just the loss of a way of speaking—it is the erasure of an entire culture, history, and identity. For communities like mine, language is the thread that connects us to our ancestors and our heritage, and its disappearance would mean losing that connection forever. Yet, despite the grim outlook, there is hope. And that hope comes from an unexpected source: artificial intelligence (AI). While AI is often associated with automation and futuristic technology, it is also emerging as a powerful tool in the fight to save dying languages. By harnessing AI, we are finding new ways to preserve, document, and even revive endangered and lost languages, ensuring they continue to thrive in the digital age. The Global Crisis of Language Extinction Languages are much more than tools for communication; they are vessels of cultural memory, traditions, and worldviews. When a language dies, the community that speaks it loses a unique way of understanding the world. This is particularly devastating for marginalized communities, who often find their languages pushed aside by global tongues such as English, Spanish, or Mandarin. Currently, almost 3,000 languages are endangered, and a language goes extinct approximately every two weeks. Globalization, migration, and the pressure to adopt dominant languages for economic or social mobility have accelerated this trend. In an increasingly connected world, many minority language speakers feel pressured to abandon their native tongues in favor of more widely spoken languages. This is where AI is stepping in to help. AI: A New Hope for Language Preservation In the past, the documentation and preservation of languages were slow, labor-intensive processes led by linguists and anthropologists. While these efforts have been invaluable, they are often insufficient to keep pace with the rapid rate of language loss. AI offers a revolutionary way to change this. AI-powered technologies, such as natural language processing (NLP) and speech recognition, can quickly and accurately document and analyze languages that have limited or no written records. These tools can transcribe spoken language into written form, allowing researchers to create comprehensive records of endangered languages. AI can also detect patterns in the language that might take human linguists years to uncover. For example, Google's ‘Woolaroo’ project uses AI to help communities document their endangered languages by allowing users to take photos of objects and receive translations in their native tongue. This kind of technology makes language preservation accessible, even to those who may not be linguists themselves. Real-Time Translation and Learning Tools Another exciting application of AI is real-time translation for endangered languages. AI-driven platforms, such as NightOwlGPT , provide real-time translation for marginalized languages like Karay-a, ensuring that speakers can communicate in their mother tongue while engaging with the broader world. These translations don’t just convert words; they capture the cultural nuances embedded in the language, offering a deeper understanding of what is being communicated. In addition to translation, AI also supports interactive learning tools. For endangered languages, passing knowledge from one generation to the next can be a challenge, especially if younger people are more comfortable with technology than their native tongue. AI-powered learning modules provide engaging, interactive ways for individuals to reconnect with their native languages. These tools can make language learning fun and accessible, helping to bridge the gap between older and younger generations. Reviving Lost Languages Beyond preserving endangered languages, AI is also helping to revive languages that have already been lost. Through the analysis of historical records, audio files, and other linguistic materials, AI can assist linguists in reconstructing extinct languages. One notable example is the Wôpanâak Language Reclamation Project in the United States, which used AI to analyze archival materials and reconstruct the Wampanoag language that had not been spoken fluently for over a century. Today, thanks to AI, the Wampanoag people are once again learning and teaching their native language. Empowering Marginalized Communities The true power of AI lies not only in its ability to preserve languages but also in how it empowers marginalized communities to take control of their linguistic heritage. For many indigenous groups, language is the cornerstone of identity. Unfortunately, these communities have historically faced pressure to abandon their languages in favor of more dominant cultures and languages. AI offers these communities the tools they need to reclaim their languages. Platforms like NightOwlGPT make AI technology accessible, allowing even small, remote communities to document, learn, and share their languages. By giving communities the ability to preserve their linguistic heritage, AI helps ensure that future generations can continue to speak and celebrate their native languages. Conclusion: AI as a Cultural Ally Artificial intelligence is proving to be an unexpected hero in the fight to save dying languages. By providing powerful tools for documentation, translation, and learning, AI is opening up new possibilities for preserving and even reviving endangered and lost languages. As a member of the Karay-a community, I know firsthand the importance of language in maintaining our identity and connection to our past. AI gives us the chance to protect these languages, ensuring that the stories, traditions, and wisdom passed down through generations are not lost to time. In this battle to save the world’s languages, AI is not replacing human culture—it is helping to ensure that it survives and thrives in the digital era. Through AI, we can give new life to languages that were once thought to be on the brink of extinction and empower the communities that speak them to reclaim their voices. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Medium In the digital age, we often marvel at how technology allows us to connect across borders, communicate with people from different cultures, and access information instantly in nearly any language. But while the world grows more interconnected, something irreplaceable is quietly slipping away — our linguistic diversity. Languages are disappearing faster than we can learn them. In fact, linguists estimate that a language dies every two weeks. By the end of this century, more than 95% of the world’s 7,000 languages could vanish forever. This alarming trend is not just a loss for linguists or historians, but for all of humanity. Every language that disappears takes with it centuries of cultural wisdom, traditional knowledge, and a unique worldview. If we don’t act now, we may find ourselves living in a world where our linguistic landscape is as impoverished as our biodiversity is becoming. As a member of the Karay-a ethnolinguistic group in the Philippines, I see this crisis up close. Karay-a, like many indigenous languages, is endangered. Fewer young people in my community speak it fluently, preferring to adopt dominant languages like Filipino or English for their perceived economic advantages. But what is lost in that shift? The oral histories, songs, and deep cultural connections tied to Karay-a are slipping away, and with them, a rich part of our identity. And we are not alone. In many indigenous and minority communities across the world, language loss is accelerating at a staggering pace. I recently attended Indigenous Youth Day at One Young World 2024 in Montreal, Canada, where I had the opportunity to meet youth leaders from across the globe. Most shared the same story — their languages, too, were on the brink of extinction. We spoke passionately about the cultural, social, and even psychological impacts of losing our languages. For many of us, language is more than words — it is the glue that binds our communities, the vessel for our stories, and the key to understanding ourselves. Why Does This Matter? The extinction of a language is more than the loss of words. Every language carries within it a unique perspective on the world. It encodes centuries of knowledge about local environments, traditional medicine, spiritual practices, and ways of life that cannot be replicated. When a language dies, this knowledge dies with it. For indigenous communities, language loss also means a loss of autonomy. Many of the world’s marginalized groups speak endangered languages, and when their languages disappear, they lose access to essential resources, from healthcare to legal systems, which are rarely available in their native tongue. This deepens social and economic inequalities, trapping communities in cycles of poverty and disempowerment. But the effects are not limited to the communities that speak these languages. Research has shown that language extinction often correlates with the loss of biodiversity. Indigenous communities, who have lived in harmony with their environments for millennia, possess knowledge critical to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. As their languages disappear, so too does this ecological wisdom — just as the world faces an unprecedented climate crisis. The Forces Behind Language Loss Several factors are driving this alarming trend. Globalization and economic pressures are among the most significant. Smaller language communities often feel compelled to adopt dominant languages — English, Mandarin, Spanish — to participate in global economies and access education or job opportunities. Young people, in particular, are often encouraged to abandon their native languages in favor of those that offer perceived advantages in the modern world. Urbanization also contributes to the decline of languages. As people migrate to cities in search of better economic prospects, they leave behind their rural, often linguistically rich, roots. In urban environments, the dominant languages take over, and indigenous or minority languages get pushed to the margins, becoming less relevant in daily life. Colonial histories have further exacerbated this problem. In many regions, colonial powers imposed their languages on local populations, marginalizing or even outlawing indigenous tongues. Though many countries have gained independence, the dominance of colonial languages remains entrenched, and indigenous languages continue to struggle for recognition. How We Can Reverse the Trend The good news is that language extinction is not inevitable. There is still time to reverse this trend, but it will require concerted efforts from governments, communities, and technology innovators. Technology, in particular, offers a promising solution. AI-driven platforms like NightOwlGPT are already playing a role in preserving endangered languages by providing real-time translation, language learning tools, and cultural insights. By digitizing endangered languages and integrating them into modern platforms, we can ensure that they remain accessible and relevant in today’s world. This is especially crucial for younger generations, who are growing up in a digital-first environment. Community-led initiatives are also key. Successful language revitalization efforts, such as those for Maori in New Zealand and Hawaiian in the United States, show that when communities take the lead in preserving their languages, progress can be made. Governments must support these efforts by recognizing and protecting indigenous languages, and by implementing policies that promote multilingual education. Educational systems play a crucial role as well. Schools should not only teach dominant languages but also encourage bilingual or multilingual education. This not only preserves languages but also fosters cognitive development and cultural empathy in children, who grow up understanding and appreciating diversity. Time to act now We are at a crossroads. If we do nothing, languages will continue to vanish at an alarming rate, taking with them the cultural, intellectual, and ecological richness that makes our world vibrant. But if we act now — by leveraging technology, empowering communities, and promoting inclusive policies — we can reverse this trend. Languages are disappearing faster than we can learn them, but with the right tools and strategies, we can ensure that they are not lost forever. The time to act is now. Let’s preserve the voices of the past for the generations of the future. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Manila Bulletin My name is Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo , and I am a proud member of the Karay-a ethnolinguistic group, one of the many indigenous communities in the Philippines. Growing up, my mother made sure that I knew where my roots came from. She spoke to me in Karay-a, shared our traditional stories, and ensured that I understood the importance of our language in shaping who we are. Because of her, I can still speak Karay-a fluently, but I know that not everyone in my community has been as fortunate. Many of my peers struggle with the language, and fewer children are growing up fluent. Like countless other languages around the world, Karay-a is at risk of fading away as global languages like English and Filipino dominate our daily lives. This isn’t just a problem for the Karay-a. Around 40 percent of the world’s 7,000 languages are endangered, and hundreds of these languages have already been lost. This is more than just a linguistic issue — it’s a cultural crisis. When a language dies, it takes with it stories, traditions, and a unique way of viewing the world. It erases a vital piece of human history and identity. But while the situation may seem bleak, there is hope on the horizon. Far from being the end of humanity, AI has the potential to be the savior of marginalized, endangered, and even lost languages. How AI can revive languages on the brink Artificial intelligence is often viewed with suspicion, especially when it comes to discussions about how it might “replace” human roles or diminish cultural practices. But what if we look at AI differently? Rather than seeing it as a threat, we can view it as a tool — one that has the power to revitalize languages that are teetering on the edge of extinction. For languages like Karay-a, AI presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between older generations who are fluent and younger generations who are losing touch with their linguistic heritage. Through platforms like NightOwlGPT , AI can provide real-time translation tools, interactive learning modules, and cultural insights that can help users reconnect with their native languages. With AI, communities can not only document their languages but actively teach them to the next generation, ensuring that these languages are spoken, celebrated, and passed on. Empowering marginalized communities Language is more than just words. It’s the thread that ties a community together, carrying centuries of knowledge, beliefs, and traditions. For marginalized communities, language is often the key to maintaining cultural identity in the face of external pressures to assimilate. When these languages disappear, so too does the connection to that identity. AI can be a powerful ally in reversing this trend. Platforms like NightOwlGPT are designed to make AI technology accessible to all, ensuring that marginalized voices are heard in the digital age. By supporting endangered languages through translation, educational tools, and cultural resources, AI empowers communities to reclaim and preserve their linguistic heritage. This is not just about saving languages; it’s about strengthening communities. When people feel connected to their language, they are more deeply connected to their culture, their history, and each other. In this way, AI can serve as a tool for social cohesion and cultural pride.   Reviving lost languages AI’s potential doesn’t stop at preserving endangered languages — it can even help revive languages that have already been lost. By analyzing archived recordings, texts, and other linguistic materials, AI can assist linguists in reconstructing lost languages, offering a new pathway for their revival. Imagine a future where forgotten languages are no longer confined to dusty textbooks but are spoken once again, thanks to AI-powered learning tools. Children who might never have heard their ancestral language can engage with it, speak it, and become part of its revival. AI, in this context, isn’t just preserving history; it’s creating a future where diverse linguistic traditions are celebrated and sustained. A new beginning, not the end As a member of the Karay-a community, I see firsthand the importance of language in maintaining our identity and our connection to the past. And while we face challenges, I am hopeful. AI will not be the end of humanity; instead, it will be a vital part of reviving the voices that have been marginalized, endangered, or lost altogether. The story of language extinction does not have to end in silence. With AI as our tool, we can give new life to the languages that shape our world, ensuring that future generations — whether they speak Karay-a, Navajo, or any other endangered language — can carry forward their linguistic and cultural heritage. This is not the end; it’s a new beginning. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Manila Bulletin In the world today, a silent crisis is unfolding: the rapid extinction of languages. UNESCO estimates that approximately 40 percent of the world’s 7,000 languages are at risk of disappearing by the end of this century. This is more than just the loss of words and grammar; it is the loss of entire cultures, histories, and identities. As these languages fade, so too do the voices of the communities that speak them, along with the rich cultural knowledge they carry. In this critical moment, NightOwlGPT is stepping forward with a mission to preserve endangered languages and ensure that linguistic diversity continues to thrive in the digital age. Language extinction Language is much more than a means of communication. It is a repository of a community’s collective memory, encompassing its traditions, beliefs, and values. When a language dies, we lose not only a way of speaking but also a unique worldview, a piece of human knowledge that may never be recovered. This loss is particularly devastating for marginalized communities, who often find their languages pushed aside by dominant global tongues like English, Spanish, or Mandarin. Currently, nearly 3,000 languages are endangered, and every two weeks, one of these languages goes extinct. The factors contributing to this alarming rate of language loss include globalization, migration, and the adoption of dominant languages for economic or social mobility. In an increasingly connected world, speakers of minority languages may feel pressure to abandon their mother tongues in favor of more widely spoken languages. This is where NightOwlGPT comes in. NightOwlGPT’s mission NightOwlGPT is an AI-driven platform with a bold mission: to democratize AI technology and make it accessible to even the most marginalized communities. By focusing on language preservation, the platform seeks to protect the cultural diversity that is at risk of being lost forever. Through real-time translation, cultural competence features, and interactive learning tools, NightOwlGPT empowers users to not only communicate in their native languages but also pass these languages on to future generations. At the heart of NightOwlGPT ’s mission is the belief that AI can be a powerful tool for social good. The platform is designed to support endangered languages by offering real-time translations for languages like Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilokano, with plans to expand to over 170 languages globally. By embedding cultural insights and language tips into its translations, NightOwlGPT goes beyond merely providing word-for-word conversions — it helps users gain a deeper understanding of the cultural context behind each language, fostering respect and appreciation for linguistic diversity. The role of language Language is a critical component of cultural identity. It shapes the way people see the world, relate to one another, and maintain a sense of community. When a language disappears, the cultural fabric of a community begins to unravel, weakening the bonds of social cohesion and shared heritage. For indigenous peoples and other marginalized groups, language is often the last stronghold of their identity, a link to their ancestors and traditions. Losing that link can be disorienting, particularly for younger generations who may struggle to understand their heritage. NightOwlGPT ’s platform aims to reverse this trend by making endangered languages digitally accessible. Its interactive learning tools allow users to engage with their languages in meaningful ways, strengthening cultural continuity, and ensuring that these languages are not only preserved but actively used. Solution for the future NightOwlGPT recognizes that the preservation of endangered languages is not just about saving words — it’s about preserving identities, histories, and cultures. By democratizing AI and making its technology accessible to marginalized communities, NightOwlGPT offers a solution to the crisis of language extinction. The platform empowers individuals to protect their linguistic heritage while ensuring that the next generation can learn, use, and celebrate their native languages in an increasingly digital world. In a time of rapid change and growing digital connectivity, NightOwlGPT ’s mission to preserve the world’s linguistic diversity is more important than ever. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Balita I am Anna Mae Yu Lamentillo , a proud member of the Karay-a ethnolinguistic group, one of the many indigenous communities in the Philippines. Growing up, my mother made sure I understood my family's roots. She spoke to me in Karay-a, shared our traditional stories, and emphasized the importance of our language in shaping who we are. Because of her, I can still speak Karay-a fluently, but I know not everyone in my community is as fortunate. Many young people struggle with the language, and fewer grow up fluent in it. Like many languages worldwide, Karay-a is at risk of extinction as global languages like English and Filipino dominate our daily lives. This is not just a problem for Karay-a. Nearly 40% of the world’s 7,000 languages are endangered, and hundreds have already disappeared. This is more than a linguistic issue—it’s a cultural crisis. When a language dies, it takes with it stories, traditions, and a unique worldview. It erases a vital part of humanity’s history and identity. Yet, despite the dire situation, there is hope. Far from being the end, AI has the potential to become the savior of marginalized, endangered, and even extinct languages. How AI Can Empower Endangered Languages Artificial intelligence is often viewed with apprehension, especially when discussing its potential to replace human roles or diminish cultural practices. But what if we looked at AI differently? Instead of seeing it as a threat, we could view it as a tool to revive endangered languages. For languages like Karay-a, AI offers a chance to bridge the gap between older generations fluent in the language and younger generations losing connection to their linguistic heritage. Through platforms like NightOwlGPT , AI can provide real-time translation tools, interactive learning modules, and cultural insights that help users reconnect with their native tongues. With AI, communities can not only document their languages but actively teach them to future generations, ensuring they are spoken, celebrated, and passed on. Empowering the Marginalized Language is more than words. It is the thread that binds a community, carrying centuries of knowledge, beliefs, and traditions. For marginalized communities, language is often the key to preserving their cultural identity in the face of external pressures to assimilate. When these languages disappear, so does the connection to their identity. AI can be a powerful ally in reversing this trend. Platforms like NightOwlGPT are designed to make AI technology accessible to all, ensuring that marginalized voices are heard in the digital age. By supporting endangered languages through translation, educational tools, and cultural resources, AI empowers communities to reclaim and protect their linguistic heritage. This isn’t just about saving languages; it’s about empowering communities. When people feel connected to their language, they feel a deeper connection to their culture, history, and each other. In this way, AI can become a tool for unity and cultural pride. Reviving Lost Languages AI’s potential doesn’t stop at preserving endangered languages—it can even help revive those that are already lost. By analyzing archived recordings, texts, and other linguistic materials, AI can assist linguists in reconstructing lost languages, offering a pathway for their rebirth. Imagine a future where forgotten languages are no longer confined to old books but are spoken again, thanks to AI-powered educational tools. Children who have never heard their ancestral language can engage with it, speak it, and become part of its revival. In this context, AI doesn’t just preserve history—it creates a future where diverse linguistic traditions are celebrated and supported. A New Beginning, Not the End As a member of the Karay-a community, I see how crucial language is to preserving our identity and connection to the past. And while we face challenges, I am filled with hope. AI won’t mark the end of humanity; instead, it will play a vital role in reviving voices that are marginalized, endangered, or forgotten. The story of language extinction doesn’t have to end in silence. With AI as our tool, we can breathe new life into the languages that shape our world, ensuring that future generations—whether they speak Karay-a, Navajo, or any endangered language—can carry their linguistic heritage forward. This is not the end; it’s the start of a new chapter. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Balita Currently, a silent crisis is unfolding—the rapid extinction of languages. UNESCO estimates that around 40% of the world’s 7,000 languages are at risk of disappearing before the end of the century. This loss goes beyond words and grammar; it signifies the erasure of entire cultures, histories, and identities. As these languages vanish, so too do the voices of the communities that speak them and the vast cultural knowledge they carry. At this critical juncture, NightOwlGPT emerges with a mission to preserve endangered languages and ensure linguistic diversity thrives in the digital age. The Global Crisis of Language Extinction Language is more than a medium of communication; it is a vessel of collective memory, embodying a community’s traditions, beliefs, and values. When a language dies, it takes with it not only a means of expression but also a unique worldview—a part of human knowledge that may never be recovered. This loss is especially devastating for marginalized communities whose languages are often overshadowed by dominant global tongues such as English, Spanish, or Mandarin. Today, nearly 3,000 languages are endangered, and every two weeks, one language falls silent forever. Factors such as globalization, migration, and the adoption of dominant languages for economic or social advantage contribute to this alarming rate of language loss. In an increasingly interconnected world, speakers of minority languages may feel pressured to abandon their native tongue in favor of more widely spoken ones. Enter NightOwlGPT . NightOwlGPT is an AI-powered platform with a bold mission: to democratize AI technology and make it accessible even to marginalized communities. By focusing on language preservation, the platform aims to safeguard cultural diversity at risk of being lost forever. Through real-time translation, culturally enriched features, and interactive learning tools, NightOwlGPT empowers users to not only communicate in their native languages but also to pass these languages on to future generations. At the heart of NightOwlGPT ’s mission lies the belief that AI can be a powerful tool for social good. The platform supports endangered languages by offering real-time translation for languages like Tagalog, Cebuano, and Ilokano, with plans to expand to over 170 languages globally. By embedding cultural insights and language tips into its translations, NightOwlGPT not only translates words but also helps users understand the cultural context behind each language, fostering respect and appreciation for linguistic diversity. The Role of Language in Cultural Identity and Community Unity Language is a cornerstone of cultural identity. It shapes how people perceive the world, interact with one another, and maintain their sense of community. When a language is lost, the cultural fabric of a community begins to unravel, weakening the ties of unity and shared heritage. For indigenous and other marginalized groups, language often serves as the last bastion of identity—a connection to their ancestors and traditions. Losing this connection can lead to a crisis of identity, especially for younger generations struggling to understand their heritage. NightOwlGPT seeks to reverse this trend by making endangered languages more accessible in digital form. Its interactive learning tools enable users to engage with their languages in meaningful ways, promoting cultural continuity and ensuring these languages are not just preserved but actively used. Conclusion: A Solution for the Future NightOwlGPT recognizes that preserving endangered languages is not just about saving words—it’s about safeguarding identities, histories, and cultures. By democratizing AI and making this technology accessible to marginalized communities, NightOwlGPT offers a solution to the language extinction crisis. The platform empowers individuals to protect their linguistic heritage while ensuring that future generations will learn, use, and celebrate their native languages in an increasingly digital world. In an era of rapid change and growing digital connectivity, NightOwlGPT ’s mission to preserve the world’s linguistic diversity has never been more vital. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Manila Bulletin As an MSc Major Programme Management student at the Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, my research will focus on one of the most pressing challenges in the digital age: bridging the digital divide by enhancing natural language processing (NLP) capabilities for low-resource languages with complex morphologies. For billions of people, access to digital tools in their native languages remains limited or nonexistent. This gap perpetuates social and economic disparities, and limits access to essential services, especially in regions where languages are rich in complexity but low in digital representation, such as the Philippines and numerous countries across Africa. Through my work, I aim to explore how NLP tailored to these languages can serve as a bridge to digital inclusion and economic opportunity for marginalized communities. Low-resource languages often have unique characteristics that make standard NLP models, built for high-resource languages like English and Spanish, ineffective. Languages such as Tagalog, Yoruba, and Twi possess complex morphology, grammar structures, and cultural nuances that typical models fail to capture. This underrepresentation is particularly stark in regions such as Africa and Southeast Asia, where linguistic diversity is vast. Without proper NLP models, speakers of these languages face additional barriers to digital literacy, excluding them from education, healthcare, and civic engagement available through digital channels. A major part of my research will involve studying how artificial intelligence (AI) can be trained to overcome linguistic and data-related challenges unique to low-resource languages. This focus aligns directly with the mission of my startup, NightOwlGPT , a platform specifically designed to support marginalized languages. NightOwlGPT ’s approach, which began in the Philippines with languages like Tagalog and Cebuano and is now expanding to countries in Africa, prioritizes language preservation and accessibility. By engaging with underrepresented languages, NightOwlGPT demonstrates how AI can create meaningful connections between people and digital resources in their native languages, thereby facilitating social and economic growth in underserved communities. The stakes are high. Low-resource language speakers, including millions across Philippines, Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria, often rely on oral traditions, which are at risk of being lost in the absence of digital preservation. My research will build on the work of platforms like NightOwlGPT by investigating techniques for collecting and structuring data that accurately represent these languages. For example, African languages often incorporate tonal distinctions that shift meaning based on pitch, while Filipino languages may use affixations that add layers of meaning to root words. Training AI to understand these intricacies will not only provide more accurate NLP tools but also contribute to cultural preservation. Addressing this issue is about more than technology – it’s about creating an inclusive digital world that serves all languages. By training NLP to understand low-resource languages, we not only bridge a technological gap but also foster digital equity, allowing diverse communities to engage fully in today’s digital landscape. At Saïd Business School, my research will strive to highlight and close this gap, advocating for a digital environment where linguistic diversity is both preserved and celebrated. AI has the potential to be transformative for all communities, and with enhanced NLP tailored to low-resource languages, we can ensure that everyone has a voice in the digital age. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Manila Bulletin As the founder of NightOwlGPT , I’ve seen firsthand how data scarcity impacts the development of natural language processing (NLP) models for marginalized and indigenous languages. These languages often exist outside mainstream digital spaces, leaving billions of speakers without access to AI tools that enhance communication, learning, and connectivity. One of the most promising solutions to this challenge is synthetic data generation—a transformative approach that’s opening doors for marginalized languages in NLP frameworks and creating new possibilities for digital inclusion. Synthetic data generation uses algorithms to create data that mirrors real-world language data. This method is particularly valuable for low-resource languages, where access to large, high-quality datasets is limited. With synthetic data, we can simulate the richness of indigenous languages by generating diverse linguistic examples that reflect these languages’ unique structures and nuances. For NightOwlGPT , this means we can create robust NLP models that support underrepresented languages, from Tagalog and Cebuano in the Philippines to Twi and Yoruba in West Africa. The advantages of synthetic data generation are clear: it allows us to build more accurate NLP tools, even when real data is scarce. Indigenous languages often have complex morphologies, intricate tonal shifts, or unique dialects that are not easily captured with limited real-world data. By generating synthetic data tailored to these complexities, we ensure that our models understand and respect the full depth of each language. For example, in tonal languages like Twi, synthetic data can replicate tonal distinctions that change word meanings, while in Filipino languages, it can model intricate grammar rules. This enables us to build culturally competent NLP tools that genuinely serve native speakers. Moreover, synthetic data helps NightOwlGPT fulfill its mission to preserve linguistic heritage in the digital realm. Many indigenous languages are primarily oral, with few written records, making data collection a challenge. Synthetic data lets us simulate real-world conversations and culturally relevant contexts, preserving these languages in digital form. This is critical not only for cultural preservation but also for empowering future generations who may rely on digital resources to learn or reconnect with their heritage languages. Addressing the Challenges of Synthetic Data in Indigenous Languages However, synthetic data generation also comes with risks—especially when working with marginalized languages. One of the main pitfalls is the potential for synthetic data to misrepresent cultural nuances. Indigenous languages are deeply rooted in context, metaphors, and idioms that are difficult to replicate artificially. An NLP model trained on inaccurate synthetic data risks generating outputs that are not only inaccurate but potentially offensive to native speakers. To prevent these issues, NightOwlGPT prioritizes partnerships with native speakers and linguistic experts during data generation and validation. Their insights are essential in shaping data that accurately reflects the language’s subtleties. By creating a continuous feedback loop with these communities, we can ensure our models evolve and reflect real-world language use. Bias is another critical concern. If synthetic data is generated from biased or limited sources, the model risks perpetuating stereotypes, which can be especially harmful when working with underrepresented languages. To mitigate this, we rigorously source diverse input material and apply bias-detection tools during the synthetic data generation process. Additionally, we make our synthetic data generation methodologies as transparent as possible, inviting community feedback to help spot and correct biases early on. Lastly, relying solely on synthetic data can risk creating models that lack the richness of authentic language use. While synthetic data can supplement real-world examples, it cannot fully replace them. For this reason, NightOwlGPT is committed to gathering real-world data through fieldwork, collaborations with native speakers, and partnerships with language preservation groups. By blending synthetic and real-world data, we achieve models that are both technically accurate and culturally resonant. Building a Future Where Every Language Thrives As synthetic data generation continues to advance, it will play an increasingly central role in NLP, especially for marginalized and indigenous languages. At NightOwlGPT , we’re excited by the possibilities it offers for building an inclusive digital ecosystem where every language—not just high-resource ones—has a presence. By carefully addressing the challenges of synthetic data, we’re working toward a future where indigenous languages are not just preserved but empowered in digital spaces, allowing speakers to engage fully with modern technology in their native tongues. In a world where connectivity and representation go hand-in-hand, synthetic data generation is a catalyst for meaningful inclusivity. At NightOwlGPT , we’re committed to making this vision a reality, ensuring that speakers of marginalized languages can finally find their voices in the digital age. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.

Originally published in Manila Bulletin As the founder of NightOwlGPT , I am thrilled to announce that we have been accepted into the NVIDIA Inception Program. This milestone is more than an honor; it’s a game changer for NightOwlGPT and our mission to create powerful, culturally competent natural language processing (NLP) models tailored to indigenous and low-resource languages with complex morphologies. NVIDIA Inception, a program designed to support startups through cutting-edge technology, technical resources, and connections to venture capital, will accelerate our progress as we push the boundaries of what NLP can achieve for underrepresented languages. Our work at NightOwlGPT is driven by a vision to bridge the digital divide for marginalized communities by developing NLP models that accurately represent and understand indigenous languages. Many of these languages are challenging for conventional NLP models, which are largely trained on high-resource languages like English, Spanish, and Mandarin. Indigenous languages often exhibit complex morphologies, tonal variations, and unique syntactic structures that require customized approaches. Traditional NLP models, without enough data or specialized training, struggle to handle these nuances, leaving billions of speakers with limited access to digital resources in their native languages. NVIDIA Inception will help us break this barrier, providing us with the resources and technology needed to bring these languages to the forefront of the digital world. NVIDIA’s advanced technical tools One of the most immediate benefits of joining the NVIDIA Inception Program is access to advanced computational tools, including cutting-edge Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), optimized software stacks, and machine learning libraries. These tools will allow NightOwlGPT to scale and enhance our model training processes more effectively than ever before. For NLP models specific to low-resource languages, this access to computational power is invaluable. Indigenous languages often require models to process large, complex datasets that account for unique phonetic, syntactic, and morphological features. With NVIDIA’s GPUs and software, we can train these models faster and with greater accuracy, enabling our team to test and refine algorithms that understand the intricate structures of indigenous languages. This enhanced computing power is crucial for our ongoing research, where we explore synthetic data generation as a way to overcome the data scarcity associated with indigenous languages. Synthetic data allows us to simulate linguistic features that may be underrepresented or missing in real-world datasets. However, generating synthetic data that maintains the cultural and linguistic authenticity of these languages requires immense computational resources. NVIDIA’s tools will empower NightOwlGPT to generate, test, and validate synthetic data more effectively, making our models more robust and culturally sensitive. Research and innovation NVIDIA Inception also provides access to the latest research and technical resources, giving NightOwlGPT a vital edge as we pioneer new NLP techniques. Our work focuses on building models that respect the intricacies of languages with complex morphologies — an area where many mainstream NLP models fall short. With access to NVIDIA’s libraries, research, and support, we can leverage advancements in areas like deep learning and neural networks to tackle linguistic complexities specific to low-resource languages. Additionally, NVIDIA’s recent advancements in GPU-accelerated NLP open up new possibilities for us to explore more sophisticated architectures, such as transformer-based models and large language models (LLMs), tailored to low-resource languages. Traditional NLP models often lack the adaptability needed for languages with unique grammatical and phonetic systems. By incorporating NVIDIA’s resources, we can experiment with advanced architectures that accommodate the complexities of indigenous languages, producing models that are not only accurate but also respectful of the language’s cultural context. Joining NVIDIA Inception is a powerful step forward for NightOwlGPT and our mission to make the digital world accessible to all languages. The support of NVIDIA’s technology, research resources, and strategic opportunities empowers us to tackle the linguistic challenges faced by marginalized and indigenous communities. With NVIDIA Inception by our side, we are poised to create NLP models that honor the depth, diversity, and beauty of indigenous languages, bringing their speakers closer to a digital ecosystem that respects and celebrates their linguistic heritage. At NightOwlGPT , we envision a future where language is never a barrier to digital access and opportunity. Thanks to NVIDIA Inception, this vision is closer than ever to becoming a reality. Together, we are building a more inclusive digital landscape, one that values every language and every voice. This opinion piece is published under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). You are free to share, adapt, and redistribute this content, provided appropriate credit is given to the author and original source.