Tolentino alarmed by use of AI in electoral campaigns

Senator Francis Tolentino said on Saturday that he was concerned over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in election campaigns and the creation of propaganda material.

In a statement, Tolentino called for the Commission on Elections to study formulating policies on AI as applications can change facial features which may violate “the principle of truthfulness.”

“Elections must be based on truthfulness, and through the use of AI, one can change the looks of oneself, which prompted the Department of Defense to prohibit its use,” the statement read.

“Lawmakers look forward to the Comelec formulating policy regarding the use of AI in producing campaign and software materials for the elections, especially on the question of what picture must be allowed: the candidate looks at present or the looks the voters wanted to see,” it added.

COMELEC Commissioner Rey Bulay later said that policies could be formulated and may be implemented in time for the 2025 midterm elections.

Bulay added that AI manipulations could become criminal misrepresentation when violated and may cause cancellation of the Certificate of Candidacy.

“The concept of misrepresentation is also included in the principle of truth in advertising… something along this line,” Bulay said.

Currently, the Comelec is implementing RA 9710, or the Comprehensive Women’s Human Rights Law, to prohibit posters that violate the sensitivities of people. — DVM, GMA Integrated News