The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod has approved on first reading a landmark ordinance aimed at promoting the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and protecting the public from malicious deepfakes and AI-generated content.
The proposed “Responsible AI and Deepfake Regulation Ordinance of Bacolod City”, authored by Councilor Caesar Distrito and co-authored by Councilor Jason Villarosa, seeks to establish safeguards against the deceptive and unlawful use of AI technologies, particularly those that may spread misinformation, manipulate identities, impersonate government officials, or undermine public trust in official communications.
The ordinance is a proactive response to the rapid rise of AI-generated content and the growing threats posed by deepfakes and digital misinformation, Distrito said in a statement May 19. “Artificial intelligence offers enormous opportunities for innovation and better public service, but we must also recognize the dangers posed by its malicious use. This ordinance aims to protect the integrity of government communications and promote responsible digital citizenship.”
The proposed measure seeks to prohibit the creation, publication, or distribution of AI-generated or manipulated content falsely represented as official communication of the city government of Bacolod. It also penalizes the unauthorized use of government seals, logos, voices, likenesses, and digital identities for deceptive AI-generated materials.
The proposal mandates the establishment of digital authentication systems for official government communications, including verified accounts, digital signatures, QR verification systems, and other technological safeguards designed to help the public identify authentic information from the city government.
The ordinance also encourages the responsible use of AI within local governance for administrative efficiency, disaster response, research, public information, and service delivery, provided that such use complies with laws on privacy, transparency, and accountability.
Villarosa, meanwhile, stressed the importance of public awareness in addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies. “This measure is not against innovation. Rather, it ensures that technological advancements are used responsibly and ethically, while protecting the public from deception, fraud, and harmful misinformation.”
Violators may face fines and community service penalties, while city government employees found guilty of infractions may also face administrative sanctions in accordance with Civil Service rules. ||
