MMDA Warns Public Against AI-Generated Flood Photos on EDSA

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has warned that a photo of its L-shaped flood barriers along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) that circulated online was either generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) or digitally manipulated, noting that the image may create a false impression. In a Facebook post on Saturday, July 11, the MMDA stated that the photo, which depicted gutter-deep flood with floating trash on the road, shows clear signs of being AI-generated or digitally manipulated. According to the agency, the original photo was taken from a Philippine Star post about prepositioned flood barriers in front of Camp Aguinaldo in preparation for Typhoon Inday. Furthermore, the MMDA claimed that the photo was cropped and altered, including the addition of garbage, which could give the public the wrong impression. "The original image is from a Facebook post by the Philippine Star. It has been cropped and altered, including adding garbage that was not in the original photo, which may give the public the wrong impression," the agency said. The agency advised the public to remain vigilant and to verify the authenticity of information found online through official and reliable sources before sharing. "The public is encouraged to be discerning regarding information found on social media and to verify it through official and reliable sources before sharing," the MMDA added. This incident highlights the growing concern over the spread of disinformation in the Philippines, particularly content generated using AI technology. The accuracy of information related to disasters and infrastructure is critically important as it can directly impact public safety and order.