AI in Politics: The Fake Video Destabilizing the Marcos Administration

By Louis ‘Barok‘ C. Biraogo

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology are evolving at breakneck speed, we find ourselves grappling with new and insidious threats to democracy and political stability. The recent “pulvoronic video” purportedly showing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. using illegal drugs is a chilling reminder of the dangers posed by these technological advancements. Released by the Duterte-linked group Maisug from Los Angeles, this video exemplifies how AI can be weaponized to destabilize political regimes, manipulate public perception, and undermine democratic institutions.

Learning from the Past, Shaping the Future of AI

AI-generated deepfake videos are a technological marvel with a sinister side. They can create hyper-realistic fabrications that are almost indistinguishable from genuine footage. Historically, the use of deception has been a potent tool in political warfare. Consider the case of the forged “Zinoviev Letter” in 1924, which was used to discredit the British Labour Party, or the infamous “Dreyfus Affair” in France, where forged documents were used to convict an innocent man, Alfred Dreyfus, of treason. These historical precedents highlight the devastating impact that deception and forgery can have on political figures and regimes.

The Dangers of Fake Videos

The “pulvoronic video” is a modern manifestation of this age-old tactic. There are several reasons why the proliferation of such fake videos is alarming:

Erosion of Trust: These videos erode public trust in democratic institutions and leaders. When citizens cannot distinguish between truth and fabrication, it undermines the very foundation of democracy.
Political Destabilization: As seen in the Marcos case, fake videos can be used as a tool for political destabilization, creating chaos and uncertainty within a nation.
Legal and Ethical Violations: The creation and dissemination of fake videos involve severe ethical breaches and legal violations, including defamation, slander, and potential breaches of national security.
Global Implications: The international release of such videos complicates jurisdictional accountability and highlights the global nature of this threat.

Challenging the Narrative

From multiple perspectives, the plot to destabilize the Marcos administration through a fake video is reprehensible. Politically, it represents an underhanded attempt to discredit a democratically elected leader. Socially, it sows division and discord among the populace. Legally, it challenges the integrity of the judicial system and the rule of law.

The National Security Council (NSC) and the Department of National Defense (DND) have rightly condemned the video as a “fabricated and malicious hoax.” They underscore the desperation and ulterior motives of those behind this crude attempt. The call for U.S. authorities to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice is a necessary step in addressing this international aspect of the crime.

Legal Remedies and Government Actions

The Philippine government has several remedies at its disposal to combat this threat:

Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012: Under Republic Act No. 10175, the dissemination of fake videos can be prosecuted as cyber libel or cybercrime offenses.
Revised Penal Code: Provisions on libel, slander, and defamation can be invoked against those responsible for creating and spreading defamatory content.
International Cooperation: Leveraging mutual legal assistance treaties (MLATs) and international partnerships can help track down and prosecute perpetrators abroad.

Philippine Supreme Court precedents, such as the landmark decision in Disini v. Secretary of Justice, affirm the constitutionality of penalizing cybercrimes, reinforcing the government’s authority to act against such malicious acts.

Proposals for Action

Swift Government Response: The Philippine government must act decisively to investigate, prosecute, and penalize those involved in creating and disseminating the fake video. This includes working with international counterparts where necessary.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public on the dangers of deepfake technology and how to identify fake videos is crucial in building resilience against such threats.
Strengthening Cybersecurity: Investing in advanced cybersecurity measures to detect and prevent the spread of fake videos can safeguard against future attacks.

A Call for Unity and Justice

In these challenging times, it is imperative for Filipinos to stand united against attempts to destabilize the nation. The proliferation of fake videos and the malicious intent behind them threaten not just the political stability of the country but the very fabric of its democracy. The government must act swiftly and decisively to bring the perpetrators to justice, restore public trust, and strengthen democratic institutions.

This is a resounding call for more than action; it is an urgent Invocation for justice and unity. Let us unite with unwavering vigilance and determination to champion truth and uphold the sacred tenets of democracy. The very essence of our nation hinges on this critical moment.