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The popular Filipino comedian and television host Vice Ganda has strongly denied endorsing a purported weight loss supplement called Herbapure, confirming that a viral video showing her promoting the product was manipulated using artificial intelligence technology.
The deceptive video, which began circulating on social media on August 9, has garnered significant engagement with over 13,000 views, 189 reactions, and 98 comments as of reporting. In the doctored clip, Vice Ganda appears to enthusiastically endorse the alleged herbal supplement, claiming remarkable weight loss results.
Text overlaid on the video falsely claims “Even celebrities are hooked! [This product is for] a lighter body,” while a link in the comment section redirects users to what appears to be an order page for Herbapure.
On October 20, Vice Ganda addressed the fraudulent content directly through her official verified Facebook account. “This video is NOT LEGIT! I do not endorse this herbal weight loss supplement!” she wrote. “The video was AI-generated using my old TikTok video about the storm last year. My clothing, actions, and even my voice were imitated!”
The investigation confirmed Vice Ganda’s statement, revealing that the original content came from a July 7, 2024, TikTok video where she discussed Super Typhoon Carina. Bad actors had manipulated this authentic footage to create the impression she was promoting Herbapure.
Beyond the unauthorized use of Vice Ganda’s likeness, the product itself raises significant consumer safety concerns. Herbapure does not appear on the Philippine Food and Drug Administration’s registry of approved products, suggesting it lacks proper regulatory clearance and safety verification.
This incident represents part of a growing trend of digital impersonation targeting public figures. Vice Ganda has previously been the subject of similar disinformation campaigns, with fact-checking organization Rappler debunking multiple false claims involving the entertainer.
The case highlights the increasing sophistication of AI-generated content being used for potentially fraudulent marketing purposes. With deepfake technology becoming more accessible, celebrities and public figures face mounting challenges in protecting their image and reputation from unauthorized commercial exploitation.
Health authorities consistently warn consumers about unregistered supplements, which may contain undisclosed ingredients or make unsubstantiated health claims. The Philippine FDA maintains a searchable database of approved products that consumers can verify before making purchases.
Digital marketing experts note that the use of celebrity likenesses without consent is not only potentially illegal but also undermines consumer trust. The practice of creating fake endorsements using AI technology raises serious ethical and legal questions around image rights, consumer protection, and advertising standards.
Social media platforms continue to grapple with effectively moderating such content, which often spreads rapidly before being identified as fraudulent. Consumers are advised to verify celebrity endorsements through official channels and to approach health-related product claims with skepticism.
Vice Ganda’s prompt public denial serves as an important reminder for fans and consumers to remain vigilant about the authenticity of celebrity endorsements, especially for health-related products making significant claims about weight loss or other benefits.
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8 Comments
While it’s concerning to see Vice Ganda’s likeness used in this way, I’m glad she was able to address it directly and clarify that she does not endorse the product. Fact-checking and source verification are key to avoiding falling for these kinds of scams.
This is a great example of the dangers of deepfakes and manipulated media. Even celebrities can fall victim to this type of fraud. I’m glad Vice Ganda was able to call out this fake video and protect her reputation.
It’s disappointing to see someone’s likeness being used to promote a potentially fake product without their consent. AI-generated content can be very convincing, so it’s crucial for people to be vigilant about what they see online.
Agreed, this kind of deception is a real problem. Fact-checking and verifying information is so important, especially for anything related to health and wellness products.
Artificial intelligence can be a powerful tool, but when used for deception it can cause real harm. This case highlights the need for greater regulation and transparency around the use of AI-generated content, especially in marketing and advertising.
Absolutely, there needs to be better oversight and accountability when it comes to the use of AI technologies. Manipulated videos like this can be very misleading and damage public trust.
Wow, this is a concerning case of AI-generated fake content. It’s good Vice Ganda was able to address this directly and clarify that she did not endorse this weight loss supplement. Deceptive marketing practices like this can be very harmful to consumers.
I’m glad Vice Ganda spoke out against this. Manipulated videos like this erode trust and can mislead people, so it’s important for public figures to set the record straight.