Jollibee to hold ‘re-draw’ after DTI probe on raffle mess

Metro Manila, Philippines - Fast food giant Jollibee is set to conduct a re-draw of its viral raffle promo after the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) released its probe findings on the incident.

“The internal investigation uncovered fraudulent attempts by third parties exploiting the entries and draw systems during its Week 3 draw,” the DTI said in a statement on Wednesday, Aug. 20.

“This resulted in the disqualification of the malicious entries and winners with the approval of the DTI,” it added.

Jollibee’s “Burger Blowout Promo” went viral last week as netizens criticized that the Week 3 winners had seemingly AI-generated names, such as “Colten Rosenbaum,” “Curt Jacobi,” and “Delta Heidenreich.”

When the DTI opened the investigation, it said Jollibee immediately implemented “corrective measures” and suspended succeeding raffle draws.

“In strict adherence to DTI’s directives, we reinforced our verification and validation processes to strengthen the integrity of our promo and prevent similar incidents in the future,” Jollibee said in a statement on Wednesday.

The DTI said a re-draw will be held to ensure fairness, transparency, and legitimate winners.

“The Week 3 re-draw, along with the Week 4 to Week 6 draws and a special raffle, will be held to give participants additional chances to win,” the department said.

“The Department shall continue to oversee the resumption of the Jollibee Burger Blowout Promo and similar activities to ensure fairness and transparency in all promotional undertakings,” it also said.

The DTI assured it is vigilant in monitoring trade promotion for consumer protection, as well as it will maintain an enabling environment for businesses.