MANILA — Senator Risa Hontiveros on Maundy Thursday warned the public to stay vigilant against fake news and AI-generated content across social media, following a surge of misleading posts targeting her.
Hontiveros urged Filipinos not to fall for disinformation, saying some individuals have been “working overtime” to spread lies against her and her office—even during the Lenten season. She stressed the importance of critical thinking and responsible sharing online to prevent false narratives from gaining traction.
Earlier, the senator called on Meta to take action against AI-generated posts circulating on Facebook that falsely depict her in fabricated scenarios, such as clearing grass with a bolo or riding a jeepney. She shared a compilation of accounts spreading the content and pressed the platform to address the issue.
Hontiveros also denied viral claims that she sought an endorsement from tennis star Alex Eala for LGBTQ+ advocacy, calling the posts completely untrue. “STOP THE LIES!” she wrote, reiterating her appeal for stronger action against manipulated and AI-generated misinformation.
The senator likewise refuted altered images shared by online personalities, emphasizing that such content is fabricated and urging the public to be more discerning. Her statement comes amid broader concerns about the growing use of AI tools to spread disinformation and influence public opinion online.
