Report AI-Generated Content Sparks Disinformation Concerns in PH

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Picture courtesy of PhilStar

 

In the Philippines, experts are raising alarms over the rapidly advancing capabilities of artificial intelligence in creating visually undetectable fake content. This advancement poses a growing threat of misuse in disinformation campaigns.

 

Carlos Nazareno of Democracy.Net.PH warns that improvements in AI models are making it increasingly difficult to identify artificially generated content. Past indicators, such as anomalies in body features, are disappearing as technology evolves.

 

A striking example of this challenge is Google's AI video generator, Veo 3. Released in May, this tool has produced hyperrealistic videos that have gained traction on platforms like TikTok and Facebook. Some videos, resembling real news segments, have sparked controversy. One such video, shared by Senator Bato dela Rosa, depicts a fabricated student debate on the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. Despite being flagged for inconsistencies, many viewers failed to recognise it as fake.

 

Nikko Balbedina from PressONE.PH highlights the political risks, noting AI-generated content can manipulate public opinion, particularly amid significant political events like impeachments. The erosion of trust in political processes is a real concern, as seen in past elections where AI-manipulated videos impacted public perceptions.

 

 

In response, there are calls for tech giants to develop detection tools for AI-generated content, as relying solely on users to label deceptive posts is insufficient. Nazareno advises the public to focus on content messaging and verify with reliable sources to counter misinformation.

 

Education is crucial in this fight. Nazareno stresses the need for enhanced media literacy programs in the Philippines to address disinformation and AI topics. Comparisons are drawn to Finland, where media literacy is integrated into education from an early age.

 

Efforts to establish AI regulations are also underway. However, several proposed AI-related bills were not passed in Congress and need refiling. Balbedina emphasises the urgency of these measures, warning of AI's potential to undermine democracy if not properly managed.

 

With AI technology advancing swiftly, collaboration among government, tech companies, academia, and civil society is essential to ensure AI's role remains beneficial and transparent. The stakes are high, and the call to action is urgent to safeguard truth and democracy in the digital age.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-07-10