La Union warns vs AI-generated images using police uniforms, insignia

CALASIAO, Pangasinan — The provincial government of La Union has warned against creating, sharing or using artificial intelligence (AI)-generated images depicting individuals wearing police uniforms.

It also cautions against the use of insignia, identification cards or other official markings of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Provincial Resolution No. 2463-2026 said the unabated proliferation of misleading AI-generated content depicting law enforcement personnel poses a genuine threat to public trust, public safety and the integrity of the PNP.

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“It may likewise be exploited to facilitate scams, extortion, harassment and other unlawful schemes against unsuspecting residents of the province,” the resolution said.

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The resolution was passed on Aug. 25 and sent to the Inquirer on Friday, Sept. 18.

While AI-generated images may be created for creative, educational, satirical or entertainment purposes, their use has limitations, and does not exempt individuals from existing laws governing the unauthorized use of police uniforms or insignia, the resolution said.

Those found guilty may be penalized under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, or Illegal Use of Uniforms or Insignia, in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

The resolution noted that this malpractice may create a false impression that an individual is a legitimate police officer or that the PNP endorses or sanctions the person involved in the illegal activity.

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The resolution was authored by Sangguniang Panlalawigan (provincial baord) Member Aaron Kyle Pinzon and co-authored by all SP members.