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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Unacceptable': Makabayan solon tears into 'plagiarized' DOT campaign

'Unacceptable': Makabayan solon tears into 'plagiarized' DOT campaign

Published Jul 3, 2023 02:35 am
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ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro has slammed the Department of Tourism's (DOT) "Love the Philippines" campaign, which she has claimed to have been plagiarized from a similar promotion used by Cyprus. "It is unacceptable for the Marcos government to resort to plagiarizing campaign slogans from other countries. We should be showcasing the unique culture, heritage, and natural wonders that make the Philippines truly remarkable," Castro said in a statement Monday, July 3. The House deputy minority leader was referring to the "Love Cyprus" campaign launched by the Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Tourism in 2021. Castro, a member of the militant Makabayan bloc, also criticized the DOT for its use of stock footage from other countries and passing them off as scenes from the Philippines in the promotional video used to kick off the Love the Philippines campaign last week. "The use of deceptive stock footage by the DOT is not only a disservice to Filipinos but also to foreigners who may be misled into believing that these images represent the beauty and attractions of our country," Castro stated. "This type of shoddy work undermines the credibility and integrity of our tourism industry," she stressed. DDB Philippines, the agency tapped by the DOT to create the promotional video, has sinced apologized for its use of stock footage from countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Switzerland, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) She said the matter has caused a huge embarrassment for the Philippines in the international community. "The DOT allocated almost P50 million for this type of work. Taxpayers' money should be used judiciously and with utmost transparency, especially when it comes to promoting our country," she said. "We deserve better. Our tourism industry deserves better. Let us uphold our commitment to honesty and authenticity in promoting our beloved nation," she added. Castro called on the DOT to rectify the issue promptly and ensure that future promotional campaigns are genuine representations of the beauty and diversity of the Philippines. She also urged concerned government agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and file appropriate charges.

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plagiarism ACT Teachers Partylist Rep. France Castro Love the Philippines
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