Senator Francis Tolentino raised the issue of using artificial intelligence (AI) in election campaign and propaganda materials with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Saturday, seeking further research for future policy formulation as apps that change people’s facial impressions proliferate, potentially violating the principle of truthfulness.
Speaking in Tagalog, Senator Tolentino, stated that elections must be formed on truthfulness, and that using AI to modify one’s appearance has pushed the Department of Defense to prohibit its usage.
The Senator looks forward to the Comelec developing guidelines on the use of AI in producing campaign and software materials for elections, particularly on the subject of what picture must be allowed: the candidate’s current look or the looks the voters wished to see.
In a statement, Comelec Commissioner Rey Bulay welcomed Sen. Tolentino’s point about adopting AI in the creation of campaign and software materials during elections.
Commissioner Bulay stated that the concept of establishing laws employing AI in the production of election materials, whether printed or digital, is feasible and may be implemented in time for the 2025 midterm elections.
“The concept of misrepresentation is also included in the principle of truth in advertising…something along this line,” he added.
Commissioner Bulay stated that the Comelec is now implementing RA 9710, or the comprehensive women’s human rights law, which intends to eliminate discrimination through the recognition, protection, fulfillment, and promotion of Filipino women’s rights.
He stated that they have begun enforcing the prohibition on posters that violate people’s sensibilities, including declaring illegal campaigning of materials that go against RA 9710.
