New PAGCOR logo draws flak
July 12, 2023 at 09:53 PMShortly after its launch, the new PAGCOR logo received criticism from netizens, who described it as ugly, cheap, and lacking in harmony.
“In terms of graphic design I prefer the old PAGCOR logo. Pinag-isipan. The new one? Pinag-perahan.”
These are the words Artist Alex Umali said in his Facebook post about the new logo of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation inaugurated on July 11.
PAGCOR’s new logo, unveiled in celebration of the organization’s 40th anniversary, symbolizes the agency’s reinvigorated role as the primary gaming regulator in the Philippines. PAGCOR states that the logo incorporates the element of fire, which signifies energy, inspiration, passion, and transformation.
The new blue and red design has received criticism from Facebook users who find it unappealing when compared to the familiar old icon. They have voiced concerns about potential waste of public funds. This freshly created logo, reportedly commissioned for a sum of P3 million, is not shielded from public scrutiny.
According to writer Ninotchka Rosca, “What fire? Guy needs new glasses. Magkano ang binayad dito?”
“The design is very pisonet,” said former Congressman Terry Ridon.
Another commenter even compared the logo to that of Petron Corporation, with the choice of color and the similarity of its design, as Mark Camilon said, “Hindi mo kami maloloko Petron.”
Artists have expressed criticism towards the new logo, with one artist noting that it bears little resemblance to a flame and that the red-to-blue gradient lacks seamless blending.
“The symbol itself barely resembles a flame & that red to blue gradient is just not blending well. Additionally, the proportions between the symbol & text just feels to unbalanced that they don’t look like they belong together,” according to RGB Designs.
In his Facebook post, Jonathan Teodoro, another artist, expressed his view that the logo lacks harmony.
“Naki-analyze ako dun sa 3 Million pesos na logo ng PagCor. Wala bes, walang harmony talaga. Puro oblong nakuha ko imbes na circle. Pinilit ko isakto, ayaw talaga eh, andaming curves na off haha.” Teodoro said.
“Parang pina-rush sa batang nagbabantay sa computer shop.” Teodoro added.
Certain artists have gone as far as offering their own interpretations of the logo, while others, such as “Tarantadong Kalbo,” have openly mocked it by transforming it into a grinning devil and a fighting cock.
Photo: PAGCOR, Tarantadong Kalbo