Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 12) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) said it will be sticking with the “Love the Philippines” slogan despite the country’s global branding campaign facing issues following its launch.
“Yes, it is here to stay,” DOT Secretary Christina Frasco told reporters on Tuesday.
“The world continues to love the Philippines as indicated by the accolades, the international arrivals, and love and support that continue to pour in from our friends around the world, as well as our fellow Filipinos who love the Philippines,” she said.
Launched on June 27, the promotional video and new tourism campaign of the DOT faced backlash after netizens pointed out it had supposedly used clips of locations outside the country.
Ad agency DDB Philippines on July 2 apologized for using stock footage in the “mood video,” assuring no public funds were used for its production, but its contract with the DOT was terminated a day after.
The DOT chief earlier told CNN Philippines that the agency spent ₱49 million on the ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign and slogan. The department, however, clarified the controversial video was not part of the contract.
