The story of two unreceived notices: 2. Dennis Garcia of The Hotdog

I have been following another case that involved a failed delivery of a letter.

The issue is about copyright, an artist’s protection for his or her creations.

Dennis Garcia of the much-loved Hotdog band wrote that over a week ago, his group was about to close a lucrative deal with a reputable casino group and it involved the use of iconic “Manila”, the song that he and his brother,Rene,created.

The song “Manila” has become an anthem by Filipinos, especially those who have spread out to different parts of the world.

It expresses the Filipino brand of patriotism:

Hinahanap hanap kita Manila
Ang ingay mong kay sarap sa tenga
Mga jeepney mong nagliliparan
Mga babae mong naggagandahan

Dennis wrote that ‘”Sadly, the deal fell through because the prospective client found out that the lyrics of the song “Manila” was emblazoned on the casino floor of a competitive establishment.”

It was in Resort’s World that a poster with the lyrics of the song ”Manila” was used.

Last June 19, Dennis wrote Resorts World ( Kingson U. Sian, president and Stephen Reilly, chief operating officer) calling their attention to their having used “a copyrighted material for the longest time without permission, without attribution, without remuneration, and with the least concern.”

“You have arbitrarily pirated the lyrics and – via a billboard – made the endearing words the centerpiece of your casino area .This shows your utter disrespect and disregard for Filipino artists and musicians… and their work/source of income.”

Dennis, wrote in his widely-read blog,Chubibo, (his column in Abante is also under the same title) that the COO wrote him a letter which he read but didn’t formally receive.

He found the contents of the letter insulting because it said something like “it was just a framed piece… a temporary installation to cover a gaping hole in the wall… we can bring it down if you want.”

Dennis fumed: “Pinaghirapan naming isulat at pasikatin yan… at gagawin mo lang panakip-butas ng dingding.”

To make matters worse, the lawyers got into the picture. Last June 27, Attorneys Ma. Georgina A. Alvarez,chief legal officer and Walter L. Mactal, director for Litigation, wrote Dennis threatening him of “civil, criminal and administrative” actions if he did not retract what he wrote about Resorts World COO and ceased publishing “malicious” and “false” statements.

They also demanded that Dennis issue a public apology to the COO and to the “general public.”

These lawyers come from a different world.

I called up Resorts World. I was referred to Owen L. Cammayo,director for Corporate Communications.
Here’s the statement Cammayo released:

“Resorts World Manila (RWM) reiterates the sincere apologies extended to Mr. Dennis Garcia. Upon receipt of Mr. Garcia’s notice, the questioned material containing a portion of the lyrics of one of his most famous songs was immediately taken down. As a long-time supporter of the Filipino talent, the organization has nothing but the highest respects for Mr. Garcia’s artistic works and to him as a major contributor to the local music industry. RWM has reached out to Mr. Garcia and remains open to discuss this matter directly with him for its prompt resolution.”