Senators see DOT’s termination of contract with ad agency as a right step

The Department of Tourism’s campaign slogan and logo (File image)

MANILA, Philippines — Senators Bong Revilla and Koko Pimentel agree with the Department of Tourism (DOT) move to terminate its contract for promotional campaigns with an advertising agency.

In a Tuesday statement, Revilla said DDB Philippines’ “oversight” humiliated the Philippines.

The company on Sunday admitted and apologized for using foreign stock footage for the department’s tourism promotion video titled ‘Love the Philippines.’

“DOT is more than justified in terminating its agreement with DDB Philippines. DDB’s admitted oversight has caused the country embarrassment,” said Revilla.

“We are one with the Filipino people in the indignation expressed towards the shortcomings of DDB that resulted in infirmities in the recently launched campaign of the DOT,” he added.

Meanwhile, in a text message to INQUIRER.net, Senator Koko Pimentel said the Tourism Department is “correct to terminate DDB.”

However, he also stressed the Tourism Department should not let this incident incur “financial damage” to the Philippine government.

“Make sure no financial damage to the government, then move on [and] implement better screening of contractors or service providers,” the senator told DOT.

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