By Clarist Mae Zablan, News 5 Digital
(December 1, 2021) – Google will stop accepting paid political ads in all its platforms, including Youtube during the elections campaign period in the Philippines next year, the tech giant said on Wednesday.
Google’s new policy will apply to all political ads bought through Google Ads, Display and Video 360, and Shopping platforms that are displayed on Google, YouTube and partner properties. It will take effect on February 8, the start of the election campaign for national positions, and on March 25 for local candidates.
“Google is focusing its efforts and resources on upcoming election-related initiatives which aim to help people access useful and accurate information via product features and media literacy programs, encourage participation in the voting process, and help protect the integrity of the elections,” the company said in a statement.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said political ads are any materials broadcasted, published, or displayed in any mediums that contain a graphic representation of a candidate they intend to promote or oppose, directly or not.
These advertising includes online endorsements, statements, declaration, or information graphics that appear on any website, social network, and blogging site that aims to endorse a candidate in return for consideration.
Social media networks have been prohibiting political advertising in recent years amid growing criticisms towards internet giants for profiting over allowing political figures to spread disinformation online and harm democracy across the world.
Experts have expressed doubts that these ad bans were effective at fighting fake news. A study from the U.S.-based Duke University revealed that the bans showed little evidence in reducing misinformation, and may have likely hurt poorer campaigns more than wealthier campaigns.
In the United States, a majority of citizens said that social media companies should not be allowed to publish any political advertisements on their platforms, a survey from Pew Research Center found. A larger number of Americans also found it unacceptable for companies to use user data for political campaigns.
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