AI Video Falsely Claims Clash at Iglesia ni Cristo Rally That Drew Over 15,000 and Disrupted Traffic

An AI-generated video posted on July 2 falsely depicted a clash between protesters and police at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila during a rally by Iglesia ni Cristo. The video, which received 187,000 views, 8,900 reactions, 3,100 comments, and 1,800 shares before deletion, included a narrator describing a confrontation at a people power rally.

A second similar video posted July 3 gathered 5,600 views, 155 comments, and 82 shares.

Hive Moderation flagged the first video as 99.9% likely AI-generated and 99% likely to contain AI-generated speech. Sight Engine flagged a screenshot from the video as 99% likely to be AI-generated. Rappler reported that no confrontation occurred between Iglesia ni Cristo rallyists and police at the site.

The Philippine National Police stated that minor incidents occurred only on the first day of the activity and were promptly addressed, while the second and third days were generally peaceful and orderly. net, and Rappler showed no confrontation between authorities and the protesters.

Iglesia ni Cristo members held a surprise rally on June 30 to oppose the arrest of Senator Rodante Marcoleta.

The June 30 rally gathered over 15,000 protesters, resulting in heavy traffic, temporary closure of White Plains Avenue in Quezon City, and suspension of classes. The protest continued for two more days, with the third day held at Liwasang Bonifacio. Senator Rodante Marcoleta surrendered on July 6 following the issuance of a warrant of arrest.

He faces a plunder case involving P75 million in campaign donations received when he was a congressman.