Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 8) — The Makabayan bloc of the House of Representatives on Saturday filed a resolution calling for an investigation into the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) “Love the Philippines” video, which was criticized for using stock video of locations abroad.
The lawmakers want the lower chamber – through its Committee on Tourism and Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability – to probe the issue \”to ensure that public funds are used efficiently and effectively, and that government agencies are held accountable for their actions.\”
The motion was introduced by ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. France Castro, Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas, and Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel.
\”While the DOT stressed that no public funds have been paid for the video, Congress should investigate the matter and if there are lapses in appropriate laws, rules and regulations,\” they said.
The tourism department earlier said it spent ₱49 million for the new campaign unveiled on June 27, although advertising agency DDB Philippines said no public funds were used to produce the audio-visual presentation in question.
READ: DOT scraps deal with ad agency over ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign video
Albay Rep. Joey Salceda earlier said lawmakers \”will seek facts\” on the issue when Congress resumes session.
