Lapu-Lapu City's AI Promotional Videos Spark Debate Over Authenticity and Ethics
The Lapu-Lapu City Government has ignited a heated online discussion after netizens discovered the use of artificial intelligence in its promotional materials. Videos posted on Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" Chan's official Facebook page, intended to highlight key initiatives like the free dialysis program and new gym construction, have drawn mixed reactions for their reliance on AI-generated visuals rather than authentic footage.
Viral Videos with AI Watermarks Raise Eyebrows
As of Thursday, January 22, 2026, the promotional content has amassed over 370,000 views, 5,600 reactions, 1,600 comments, and 1,400 shares. However, instead of focusing on the projects themselves, many viewers have zeroed in on the production style. The videos feature AI-generated elderly individuals discussing the positive impact of Mayor Chan's projects, with visible watermarks from Google's advanced "Veo" model—a tool designed to create high-quality, story-driven video clips from text or image prompts.
One video, promoting the gym project in Barangay Canjulao, was captioned "Dili ni AI ha (This is not AI)," but Lapu-Lapu lone district Rep. Junard "Ahong" Chan later clarified in the comments that this was written sarcastically after a netizen pointed out the AI elements. This revelation has only fueled further scrutiny from the online community.
Netizens Question Authenticity and Ethical Use
The use of AI has sparked a wave of criticism among residents. Many have expressed concerns over why the city government opted for artificial visuals instead of interviewing real people. A netizen commented, "Why are we using AI just to showcase the services you've delivered? Lisod na ba ron mag interview ug tinuod nga tawo? Sa kadaghan sa tawo sa Lapu-Lapu City, mag resort nalang to AI jud? (Is it really that difficult now to interview a real person? With so many people in Lapu-Lapu City, do you really have to resort to AI?)"
Observers have noted inconsistencies in the videos, such as varied accents in pronouncing names and Cebuano words by the AI-generated speakers. Experts explain that AI voice technology often struggles with accurate pronunciation, which can undermine the naturalness and credibility of such outputs. This has led to broader discussions about the ethical implications of using deepfake technology in government communications.
Projects Promoted Amidst the Controversy
Despite the backlash, the videos were meant to spotlight significant local projects. These include the 'Libreng Dialysis sa Lapu-Lapu' program, which provides free dialysis services to residents, and the construction of a long-awaited gym in Barangay Canjulao. While some viewers found the AI elements amusing, others argue that using authentic footage would have better served to showcase these initiatives and build public trust.
As of now, Mayor Chan has not issued a statement regarding the production of these materials. SunStar Cebu sought her comment on January 22 but was informed she was out of town. The City Government has also remained silent on the use of AI in its promotional efforts, leaving many questions unanswered about its strategy and transparency in public engagement.
