The Department of Tourism pushed back against online accusations suggesting that public money or official channels were used to advance the personal image of Tourism Secretary Esperanza Christina Frasco, calling the claims unfounded.
According to the agency, a privately owned magazine that recently featured Frasco on its cover operated independently and without any participation from the DOT. The department said it neither commissioned nor paid for the feature and had no role in choosing the images or framing the accompanying story.
The DOT emphasized that it did not enter into any agreement with the publication, nor did it communicate with its editors regarding coverage connected to the World Expo Osaka or related activities. It added that editorial decisions, including content selection and presentation, were made solely by the magazine.
Public scrutiny intensified after images linked to Frasco circulated online, including tarpaulins bearing her likeness and posts from the DOT’s official social media accounts. Among those widely shared were birthday messages issued through government platforms, which fueled speculation over the use of state resources for personal visibility.
In response, the agency reiterated that it does not permit government funds, materials, or communication channels to be used for individual promotion. It stressed that official posts and announcements are intended to highlight tourism programs, initiatives, and international engagements tied to the department’s mandate.
The DOT also called on the public to exercise caution when encountering online claims, urging verification before accepting or sharing information related to the issue.
