COMELEC Debunks Fake Election Date Graphic
Viral Graphic Sparks Confusion Over Election Date
A digitally altered graphic claiming a change in the date of the 2025 Philippine midterm elections has been circulating across various social media platforms, prompting widespread public confusion. The image falsely stated that elections would be held on May 19, not May 12 as officially scheduled.
COMELEC Quickly Responds with Official Clarification
In response, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) released an official statement reaffirming that the midterm elections will proceed as planned on May 12, 2025. The agency dismissed the viral graphic as fake and warned the public against spreading disinformation.
Verification Through Official Channels Urged
COMELEC emphasized the importance of checking updates only through official sources, including their website, verified social media accounts, and press briefings. The agency warned that unverified content could mislead voters and disrupt election preparations.
Graphic Identified as Deliberate Disinformation
According to COMELEC spokesperson James Jimenez, the altered image used legitimate visual elements—such as the agency’s logo and font style—to appear credible. However, forensic analysis confirmed that the date was manipulated, pointing to deliberate intent to deceive.
Efforts to Undermine Electoral Credibility Cited
COMELEC noted that the spread of fake election-related content is part of a broader trend aimed at undermining public trust in democratic institutions. The agency vowed to investigate the origins of the fake graphic and collaborate with cybersecurity experts.
National Bureau of Investigation Asked to Probe Source
COMELEC has formally requested the assistance of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to identify and potentially prosecute those responsible for creating and disseminating the false image. Legal action may be pursued under the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
Political Groups Urged to Curb Misinformation
The election commission called on political parties, candidates, and supporters to refrain from engaging in or amplifying disinformation campaigns. COMELEC stressed that clean and fair elections depend on accurate public information and responsible online behavior.
Educators and Voter Advocates Step In
Civil society groups and voter education advocates have echoed COMELEC’s message, launching campaigns to promote media literacy. They are encouraging citizens, especially first-time voters, to critically assess digital content and avoid sharing unverified posts.
Midterm Election Preparations Unaffected
Despite the misinformation incident, COMELEC confirmed that preparations for the May 12 midterm polls remain on track. Ballot printing, equipment testing, and training of election personnel are proceeding according to the established timeline.
COMELEC to Intensify Information Drives
To prevent similar incidents from gaining traction, COMELEC plans to ramp up public information campaigns in both urban and rural areas. Radio broadcasts, community forums, and infographics will be used to reinforce awareness of the official election calendar.
Public Reaction Highlights Need for Vigilance
Online reactions to the fake graphic ranged from confusion to outrage. Many social media users expressed concern about how easily manipulated content can spread, especially in the absence of digital fact-checking habits.
Legal Framework in Place Against Election Misinformation
COMELEC reminded the public that spreading false information about election processes or dates is a criminal offense under Philippine law. Penalties may include imprisonment and fines, particularly if the act is proven to have malicious intent.
Social Media Platforms Under Pressure to Act
The incident has reignited calls for greater accountability from tech companies in curbing election-related misinformation. COMELEC is in dialogue with platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to ensure prompt removal of false election content.
Media Outlets Play a Crucial Role
Mainstream media organizations have played a key role in amplifying COMELEC’s clarifications and countering the spread of the fake date. News agencies have urged the public to follow credible news sources, especially as election day approaches.
Conclusion: Misinformation Threatens Democratic Integrity
The dissemination of a fake election date serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by digital disinformation. As the Philippines approaches the crucial 2025 midterm elections, electoral authorities and the public must remain vigilant against tactics that erode trust in the democratic process. With continued cooperation between government agencies, media, and civil society, the country can safeguard its elections and uphold the right of every Filipino to vote with confidence.
