The controversy began when Destileria Limtuaco erected three billboards in strategic, high-traffic locations in Manila for Napoleon Quince. Positioned as a 15-year old brandy, the copy reads "Nakatikim ka na ba ng kinse anos?" ("Have you tasted a 15-year-old?"). The billboard campaign was complemented with a radio spot in which a wife accuses her husband of having an affair with a 15-year-old at a bar. He explains the 15-year-old in question is Napoleon Quince.
Critics say the campaign promotes the sexual objectification and exploitation of women, as well as paedophilia.
Adboard, a self-regulatory entity, has issued a 'cease and desist order' against the distillery, Convoy Marketing, an affiliate company, and the Sinson Lascano Group, the brandy's advertising agency, to stop airing the radio spot and dismantle the billboards.
Insisting that there was no malice or sexual innuendo intended, Desteleria Limtuaco has filed a case against Adboard, saying it is not the legitimate governing body to dictate such a procedure, eliminating the company's right to "due process". The billboards are still up.
Joining the fray are such groups as Gabriela, a militant women's group, the Archdiocese of Manila, and the National Commission on the Role of Filipino Women. Gabriela has initiated a boycott of Destileria Limtuaco's products, while child rights advocates have filed a complaint against the company for violating the Revised Penal Code and the law against child abuse and exploitation.
Brandy ads fire up intense public rage
A billboard ad by Napoleon Brandy - which poses the question, "Have you tasted a 15-year-old?" - has sparked a raging controversy, with special interest groups and the Catholic Church itself at the forefront of the protest.
