PNP warns of legal action over unlabeled AI images using police uniforms

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 25, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) warned Monday that creators of AI-generated images depicting police officers could face legal consequences if the content is not properly identified and improperly uses official uniforms or insignia.

The PNP said liability would depend on how the AI-generated material was created, presented and used, particularly if it could mislead the public into believing that the person shown is an actual police officer.

Under Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, a person may be penalized for publicly and improperly using uniforms, insignia or attire belonging to an office or organization of which they are not a member.

The provision carries the penalty of arresto mayor, or imprisonment ranging from one month and one day to six months. The PNP said violations committed online may also be considered in relation to Section 6 of the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the advisory was not intended to discourage the use of artificial intelligence but to remind the public to use the technology responsibly.

“AI is a useful tool, but we need to be careful about what we show and share online,” Nartatez said in Filipino.

“If a police uniform is being used in an AI-generated image, it should be clear that it is not a real police officer. The point is simple—enjoy the technology, but do it responsibly,” he added.

The warning comes as the PNP steps up its monitoring of AI-generated material involving police personnel.

The agency earlier said it was working to identify individuals behind malicious deepfake content circulated online, amid growing concerns over the use of AI to create misleading or fabricated images and videos involving law enforcement.