The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is taking a bold step by passing Resolution No. 11064 that bans the use of false amplifiers — fake accounts, bots, deepfakes, cheap fakes, and softfakes — in a bid to ensure the integrity of the upcoming 2025 elections, and maybe beyond.
The resolution mandates all candidates, parties, and their campaign teams to register all of their official social media accounts and pages, websites, podcasts, blogs, vlogs, and other online and internet-based campaign platform before the Comelec Education and Information Department (EID) within 30 calendar days after the filing of certificates of candidacy (COC), or until Dec. 13, 2024.
The resolution aims to curb the spread of misinformation and disinformation, a growing concern in the digital age. While this is a noble move, it also presents several challenges that need to be addressed.
The resolution’s primary advantage is its potential to reduce the spread of false information. By targeting fake accounts and bots as well as deepfakes, cheap fakes, and soft fakes, the Comelec aims to create a more truthful and transparent electoral process. This can help voters make more informed decisions based on accurate information.
It is said that deepfakes are digitally manipulated images or videos created using artificial intelligence (AI), while cheapfakes are re-contextualized authentic media to distort its meaning. On the other hand softfakes are imperceptible manipulations that are harder to detect but equally misleading.
As the means to spread fake information continue to evolve, the Comelec move is crucial in helping protect the sanctity of the electoral exercise.
Another advantage of the resolution is that it will help safeguard the integrity of the elections. By eliminating deceptive practices, it ensures that the electoral outcomes reflect the genuine will of the people. This can increase public trust in the electoral process and the democratic system as a whole.
The ban on false amplifiers also levels the playing field for all candidates. It prevents any party from gaining an undue advantage through the use of deceptive digital tactics. This can lead to a more equitable and competitive election environment.
Despite all the advantages that will be gained from the Comelec resolution, one of the significant drawbacks is the difficulty in effectively implementing and enforcing it. Identifying and tracking fake accounts and bots can be a complex and resource-intensive task. There is also the risk of legitimate accounts being mistakenly flagged, leading to potential disputes and controversies.
Another challenge confronting the resolution is the concern about the potential infringement on freedom of expression. There is a thin line between regulating false information and censoring legitimate content. Ensuring that the resolution does not overreach and stifle free speech will be a critical challenge for Comelec.
As with any regulatory measure, there is the risk that those intent on spreading misinformation will surreptitiously adapt their tactics to the ban in a bid to circumvent it. This could lead to a continuous cat-and-mouse game between regulators and malicious actors, requiring constant vigilance and adaptation.
The Comelec resolution on banning false amplifiers is a commendable move that is expected to enhance the integrity of the electoral process. However, its success hinges on the effective implementation and striking a careful balance between regulation and freedom of expression.
As we move toward the 2025 elections, it will be crucial for the Comelec to address these challenges to ensure a fair and transparent electoral environment.