The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the Philippines is preparing to release guidelines regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and prohibiting deepfakes in the upcoming 2025 national and local elections. Comelec Chairperson George Erwin Garcia announced that these guidelines will provide clarity on how social media and AI can be used in election campaigns while ensuring a level playing field for all candidates. The release is anticipated to happen next week and aims to address growing concerns about misinformation and the influence of technology in electoral processes.
The guidelines will be based on insights gathered from a stakeholders’ forum and consultation dialogue that Comelec conducted in July at the University of the Philippines. These discussions were instrumental in shaping the rules, as they involved various stakeholders, including candidates, political parties, and experts. Garcia highlighted that the purpose of the Comelec is not to favor wealthy candidates or disadvantage those with fewer resources but to ensure equal opportunities for all participants in the election process.
Garcia emphasized the importance of regulating social media and AI use in campaigns to combat the proliferation of misleading information and ensure fair electoral competition. He expressed that the Comelec’s aim is to facilitate an equitable environment for all candidates, allowing them to leverage technology responsibly while preventing abuses that could skew public perception. The need for these regulations has become more pressing as the role of technology in elections continues to evolve.
The announcement comes amidst increasing scrutiny of the electoral process, particularly concerning the influence of deepfakes and AI-generated content. As candidates gear up for the 2025 elections, the Comelec’s guidelines will provide essential frameworks for compliance and accountability in the use of new technologies. By establishing clear regulations, the Comelec aims to enhance transparency and trust in the electoral process, thereby safeguarding the integrity of democracy in the Philippines.
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