DDB Philippines, the marketing communications company responsible for the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Love the Philippines campaign, has issued an apology for a recent stock footage fiasco. The company admitted to using footage from Thailand, Indonesia, and Dubai in a promotional video that was intended for internal use only. DDB Philippines clarified that no public funds were used for the production of the video.
In a statement released on July 2, DDB Philippines acknowledged that the use of foreign stock footage in a campaign promoting the Philippines was inappropriate and contradictory to the objectives of the DOT. The company regretted the oversight and emphasized that proper screening and approval processes should have been followed. They assured the public that this incident was isolated and that future ad materials for the campaign have not yet been produced.
The DOT, while refraining from commenting on the company’s apology, asserted that it would hold accountable those responsible for the mistake. The government clarified that they did not pay for the video and would not do so in the future. DDB Philippines revealed that they initiated the video production at their own expense to support the campaign slogan.
DDB Philippines, established in 1992, is the country’s first integrated marketing communications and services network. The company offers a range of services including advertising, digital media, activations, and public relations. They are comprised of three agency networks, three specialist agencies, and seven strategic business units.
This is not the first time DDB Philippines has worked with the DOT. They were responsible for the award-winning Balikan ang Pilipinas campaign. Other campaigns handled by the company that received recognition include The Philippine International Dive Expo’s Our Sea, Our Story, Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation’s Maniguro, Magbangko campaign, and the Department of Health’s RESBAKUNA: Kasangga ng Bida campaign.
While DDB Philippines has expressed remorse for the stock footage fiasco, the DOT reiterated its commitment to developing and promoting the Philippine tourism industry. The agency assured the public that they would take necessary actions to protect the country’s interests. As they continue their efforts, the DOT expects accountability from all involved parties.
As the fallout from the stock footage incident continues, both DDB Philippines and the DOT are looking ahead to future campaigns. They remain dedicated to engaging stakeholders and the public, hoping to sustain the love and appreciation shown for the Love the Philippines campaign despite this setback.
