SUMMARY
This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.
MANILA, Philippines – Following a statement by the President of the University of the Philippines, other institutions and groups join the bandwagon in condemning the acts of plagiarism committed by Mark Joseph Solis.
READ: UP President: ‘I share the outrage over Solis’ plagiarism
In a statement released on Wednesday, September 25, the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) deplored Solis’ actions saying that he violated the rights of photographer Gregory John Smith by claiming the photograph as his own.
“His transgression tainted a noble program spearheaded by Ambassador Mayorga…as it aims to highlight Filipino virtues and strength of human character,” CCP added.
READ: Chilean Embassy revokes prize of photo plagiarist
The CCP, however, took note that Solis took responsibility for his mistake.
“Mr. Solis will now have to prove himself to be of stronger mettle to live down the deed and to prove to people he is capable of integrity,” the statement said.
READ: UP student apologizes for plagiarism
The CCP called on the cultural community to promote intellectual property rights.
“We enjoin the cultural community to uphold and respect rights of all artists; to exercise discipline and honesty in all creative endeavors; and to be steadfast in protecting the intellectual property rights of every individual,” CCP concluded.
The national cultural instiution is one of the partners in the Calidad Humana Project.
Statement of CCP on Smiles for the World Photo by Rappler Philippines
‘Deplorable’ act
The University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration (NCPAG), where Solis is enrolled as a graduate student, also condemned the act of plagiarism calling it a ‘profoundly deplorable act.’
In a statement also issued on Wednesday, the NCPAG said it defends “the virtue of intellectual honesty and integrity that is paramount and non-negotiable…in a community of scholars and public servants…”
The college has formed a fact finding committee to investigate the case and give recommendations on possible sanctions against Solis.
The college also said it shared the “indignation of many people” but added that due process must be allowed to take its course.
UP NCPAG Statement by Rappler Philippines
Debate group reacts
The University of the Philippines Debate Society, in its statement, said it does not condone acts of intellectual dishonesty among its members.
UPDS said that Solis’ act does not reflect the values that the organization espouses.
The organization also clarified that Solis was no longer affiliated with the organization since October 2012, when he failed to fulfill membership requirements.
“The Society wishes for an immediate and appropriate resolution to this issue,” the statement read.-Rappler.com
Add a comment
How does this make you feel?
There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation.