Phl slams Malaysia video ad

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur has sought an explanation from Aegis Malaysia, a business process outsourcing company, for releasing a promotional video declaring that Malaysia is a better investment site compared to the Philippines.

The embassy said the video “has placed the Philippines in an unfavorable light.”

The video cited inadequate infrastructure, unfriendly business climate and security issues, among other concerns.

The almost three-minute video, which also presented the Philippines as prone to natural disasters, has gone viral and raised alarm among netizens, both Filipinos and foreigners.

Aegis Malaysia has reportedly pulled out the video and only rogue copies are circulating.

In its letter, the embassy expressed deep concern about the video, noting that the Philippines considers Malaysian companies as friendly and active partners in furthering bilateral and regional trade and investment.

The embassy also sought an explanation from Aegis Malaysia why the video was released, and how they plan to address the issue.

Initial reports showed the company is based in Malaysia, but is run by third-country citizens.

The embassy assured potential investors that business environment in the Philippines has remarkably improved and the government is doing its best to enhance the ease of doing business in the country.