The Department of Tourism (DOT) in the Philippines has decided to retain its “Love the Philippines” campaign despite the recent controversy surrounding the use of stock footage from other countries in the promotional video. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco confirmed the department’s commitment to the campaign during the Philippine Tourism Satellite Accounts and Tourism Statistics Dissemination Forum. However, Senator Nancy Binay has called for the DOT to abandon the campaign in order to protect the integrity of Philippine tourism. Binay emphasized the importance of moving forward from the failure and preserving the brand. In her speech at the event, Secretary Frasco did not directly address the video controversy but mentioned the “Love the Philippines” campaign several times. She highlighted the beauty of the country and its recent recognition in various international travel awards. Earlier this week, the DOT terminated its contract with the advertising agency responsible for the campaign and logo, DDB Group Philippines, which took full responsibility for the oversight. The agency has pledged to cooperate with the DOT’s investigation.
