The modern pen of today is artificial intelligence, and this is what Pocholo De Leon Gonzales, known as Voice Master, used to bring Dr. Jose Rizal to life in an AI animated series. The project aims to bring the life, story, and lessons of the national hero closer to Filipino youth amidst social media and the rapid rise of technology.
In the series, Jose Rizal himself is the narrator, using Gonzales' own voice, who shares stories and important lessons for children and adults. Some of the videos have reached million views, proof that the public still has an interest in history if it is innovative and visual storytelling.
As a tribute to Rizal Day, the trailer of the new series “Pepe: Ang Batang Henyo,” was released, in which 10-year-old Rizal goes to the year 2030 to help and save Filipino youth. According to Gonzales, the series is free and open to all as education and inspiration.
Experts like Prof. Xiao Chua also pointed out that such initiatives are important as long as they have thorough research and the right context. Through creative resistance, Rizal's fight against oppression, abuse, and corruption is once again demonstrated, which remains relevant to this day.
