Ad Agency Apologises After Being Caught Using Footage of Other Countries in Philippine Tourism Video

​In a recent controversy, a Filipino ad agency has faced severe criticism for including footage of other countries in a promotional video for the Philippines’ new tourism campaign, “Love the Philippines.” The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched an investigation after multiple allegations surfaced regarding the video’s inclusion of shots from countries other than the Philippines.

​The DOT, which had contracted the ad agency DDB Philippines for assistance in launching the campaign, expressed its disappointment in a statement, mentioning that it had sought confirmation on the originality and ownership of all materials used in the video. The agency had repeatedly assured the department that everything was in order.

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​According to DOT public affairs and advocacy director Ina Zara-Loyola, the video was not part of the contract with DDB Philippines, as reported by CNN Philippines. Zara-Loyola clarified that the DOT did not pay for the material in question, and it can be attributed solely to the agency.

​DDB Philippines promptly issued a statement, profusely apologizing for the inappropriate use of foreign stock footage in the video. The agency acknowledged the oversight and admitted that while using stock footage in mood videos is a common practice in the industry, incorporating foreign stock footage into a campaign promoting the Philippines was highly inappropriate and contradictory to the DOT’s objectives.

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​The agency emphasized that it is fully cooperating with the investigation, accepting responsibility for the mistake. The controversial audio-visual presentation (AVP) was intended to be a mood video for internal stakeholders, aimed at generating excitement about the campaign. However, the oversight regarding the use of foreign footage has caused significant backlash.

The new “Love the Philippines” campaign, which replaces the decade-old slogan “It’s More Fun In the Philippines,” has been a significant investment for the DOT. With a budget of 49 million pesos (approximately $880,000), the campaign aims to reintroduce the country’s natural assets, rich culture, and diversity post-pandemic.

Despite the agency’s claims that no public funds were used for the video, the DOT acknowledges its responsibility for the negative consequences. The department is determined to uphold the highest standards in promoting the country and vows to ensure accountability while protecting the interests of the Philippines’ tourist industry.

The recent controversy surrounding the video may pose a threat to the campaign’s future, as Representative Joey Salceda has expressed concerns about the continued use of government funds. Salceda emphasized the need for rectifying the issues before budget hearings, indicating his intention to ask questions if the matters are not resolved promptly.

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As the investigation unfolds, the DOT faces the challenge of addressing the public’s concerns and rectifying the situation to safeguard the credibility of the tourism campaign. The agency’s swift apology demonstrates a commitment to accountability and a willingness to learn from this regrettable oversight, as they work towards rebuilding public trust and delivering an authentic representation of the Philippines in their promotional efforts.

Are you still excited to visit the Philippines after this tourism blunder? Please tell us in the comment section below.

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