Deepfakes Threaten Chaos Ahead of May 2025 Philippine Elections, Warns Cybercrime Watchdog

 

As the Philippines prepares for the May 2025 midterm elections, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) has sounded the alarm on the rising threat of deepfakes. Speaking at a cybersecurity conference hosted by the Stratbase Institute and the Embassy of Canada, CICC Executive Director Alexander Ramos revealed that the agency handles 200 to 300 deepfake incidents daily—a growing concern with the polls fast approaching.

“Elections are just weeks away, and that’s what we need to address right now because it will shape the future of the country,” Ramos warned. “We’re facing a major challenge with artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfakes creating havoc.”

What Are Deepfakes and Why Are They a Threat?

Deepfakes—AI-generated videos or audio that mimic real people—are emerging as a powerful tool for disinformation. With no specific law in place to regulate manipulated media, the CICC struggles to contain their spread. Ramos stressed the need for legislative action, stating, “We need to regulate content. How? That’s still up to Congress to define the boundaries.”

The CICC is collaborating with content creators and social media platforms to address the issue. Last month, the agency partnered with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to launch an initiative targeting deepfakes and election misinformation, aiming to protect the integrity of the Philippine elections. Ramos emphasized empowering Filipinos to recognize and combat AI-driven manipulation as deepfake technology advances rapidly.

A Broader Cybersecurity Crisis

Stratbase Institute President Dindo Manhit highlighted the Philippines’ vulnerability to cybersecurity threats. Despite progress in the Global Cybersecurity Index, the country faces sophisticated attacks powered by AI and the Internet of Things (IoT). “Malicious actors are getting better at launching cyberattacks,” Manhit said, noting risks to critical infrastructure like telecommunications, financial systems, and government databases.

With the 2025 midterm elections nearing, Manhit warned of intensified external interference and AI-enhanced disinformation. “Deepfake videos, fake news, and coordinated social media campaigns could sway voters, discredit candidates, and undermine the electoral process,” he explained. These tactics threaten not only the elections but also the nation’s economy and governance stability.

The Urgent Need for Action

Both Ramos and Manhit called for a comprehensive approach to tackle deepfakes and cyber threats. Beyond strengthening technological defenses, they urged building societal resilience against digital manipulation. “This isn’t just a technical issue—it’s a societal one,” Manhit said, advocating for collective efforts to safeguard the Philippine electoral process.

As the May 2025 elections loom, the Philippines faces a critical challenge: countering the deepfake menace to protect democratic trust. With cybercrime on the rise and AI disinformation evolving, the stakes have never been higher.

Source: www.abs-cbn.com/news/

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