Saksi: Exclusive: UP graduate student na nag-plagiarize ng litrato sa mga contest, nag-sorry

Summary

Mark Joseph Solis, a UP graduate, publicly apologized for winning a photo contest using a plagiarized image. The photo, originally taken by Gregory John Smith, depicted a child in Brazil rather than the subject Solis claimed in Zamboanga. In his heartfelt plea, he expressed remorse to both the original photographer and the Chilean Embassy, while detailing his financial struggles and the importance of the prize for his family. The incident has led to an investigation by the university, raising questions about potential legal repercussions under intellectual property laws.

Takeaways

• 😔 A UP student, Mark Joseph Solis, apologized after winning a photo contest with a photo that wasn't his.
• 📷 The photo he submitted was of a Brazilian child, originally taken by Gregory John Smith in Zamboanga.
• 🙏 Mark expressed deep remorse for his actions and sought forgiveness from Mr. Smith and the Chilean Embassy.
• 💰 He mentioned that the $1,000 prize was meant to help cover family expenses, including medical bills for his sick mother.
• 📄 Mark showed a letter he wrote to the UP chancellor asking for an extension on his tuition payments.
• 😓 He admitted to using unauthorized photos in other contests, including the Safe Peace Photo Contest in 2011.
• ⚖️ The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process is investigating the matter and may take legal action if Mark is found guilty.
• 📜 Legal experts indicated that he could face charges under the Intellectual Property Code.
• 🏫 The UP National College of Public Administration is reviewing whether Mark could be suspended or expelled.
• 🤝 Despite the situation, faculty emphasized the importance of being humane and fair in the investigation process.

Q & A

What was the main controversy surrounding Mark Joseph Solis?

Mark Joseph Solis won a photo contest using a photograph that was not his own, which led to allegations of plagiarism.

Who was the original photographer of the image used by Solis?

The original photographer of the image was Gregory John Smith, who captured the photo of a child in Brazil.

How did Mark Joseph Solis respond to the allegations?

Solis expressed deep remorse and apologized to Mr. Smith, the Chilean Embassy, and others who were affected by his actions.

What did Solis plan to do with the prize money he won?

Solis intended to use the $1,000 prize to help cover his family's expenses, including medical costs for his sick mother and his tuition fees.

What steps did Solis take after admitting his wrongdoing?

He prepared a letter to the UP Chancellor requesting an extension for his tuition payment and indicated he was willing to return the prizes from the contests.

What other competitions did Solis admit to plagiarizing from?

Solis admitted to using images that were not his own in other competitions, including the Safe Peace Photo Contest organized by the Office of the Presidential Advisor on Peace Process.

What potential legal consequences did Solis face for his actions?

Legal experts suggested he could face violations of the Intellectual Property Code, which may include charges related to forgery or falsification.

What measures are being considered by UP regarding Solis's academic status?

The University of the Philippines is investigating whether to suspend or expel Solis, taking into account his conduct and the potential violations.

How is Solis's character perceived by his peers and faculty?

Despite the controversy, Solis is described as a kind student, and there are calls for a humane approach in handling the situation.

What does the situation highlight about the importance of ethics in academia?

This incident emphasizes the critical need for integrity and originality in academic work, as well as the consequences of failing to uphold these values.