Brands Behaving Badly: The Taragis Tattoo Saga

A Takoyaki shop called Taragis recently caused a big fuss on Facebook. What exactly happened in the viral Taragis tattoo prank?

Just kidding? 

On Monday, April 1, 2024, the shop put up a daring social media challenge offering a substantial reward of ₱100,000 to the first person who had their logo tattooed on their forehead. Known for doing various social media trendjacking stunts, this kind of gimmick is nothing new. The phrase “April Fool’s” was written at the bottom of the Facebook photo. However, it’s not visible unless the user clicks on the photo itself.

Unfortunately, one social media user named Ramil Albano fell for it. He took the challenge seriously. And had the logo tattooed on his forehead, blurring the lines between humor and harm. He shared a photo of the tattoo in the comments of the post. Which triggered a wave of reactions on social media. Comments ranged from calls for accountability to legal threats, showing the gravity of the situation.

So, who’s to blame?

In response to the criticism, Taragis attempted to offer Albano some cash and published a now-deleted post clarifying the prank. They stated that they were “not accountable for the events that occurred” and urged readers to remember “how important reading comprehension is.” Some defended them, arguing for individual responsibility and the importance of media literacy.

However, others continued to express dismay about the Taragis tattoo and the shop being careless and insensitive. Saying the prank has gone a little too far. Given that many Filipinos may be oblivious to the concept of April Fools’. Some also felt that their statement left a sour taste in their mouths, portraying Albano as falling for the oldest trick in the book when he was just trying to make ends meet.

Staged?

Furthermore, certain netizens have noted that, given the brand’s history of staging stunts, they suspect this prank was for marketing purposes. Multiple online sources indicate that a tattoo typically takes two to four weeks to heal. Interestingly, Albano’s tattoo appears fully healed, adding to suspicions about the authenticity of the entire ordeal.

Local Businesses to the Rescue

Thankfully, following a significant online backlash, numerous remarkable Filipino businesses have stepped up to the call. They’ve offered cash assistance, laser tattoo removal, electronic gadgets, household appliances, hotel accommodations, and even lifetime free laundry services. Project Glow Up pledged to give ₱100,000.

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Let’s remember the Taragis tattoo incident and be mindful of the impact our pranks may have on those around us. And it’s crucial to ensure that pranks never put people in uncomfortable situations.