The ‘Pokeverse’ fan convention held in Mandaluyong, Manila in the Philippines has been likened to a disastrous Willy Wonka expo in the video game industry. Attendees, such as BintuRita, have shared their experiences of incompetence, disappointment, and sheer mismanagement on social media. The event was marred by late openings, downsized floor plans, empty spaces, and unprofessional behavior from both attendees and organizers.
According to accounts from BintuRita, the convention lacked a centralized theme, with the camera crew indiscriminately filming cosplayers and unattended minors instead of focusing on the essence of the event. Moreover, a ‘Make-A-Wish’ segment caught attendees off guard, as terminally ill children were paraded on stage without proper consideration for their health and well-being. The lack of emphasis on consent and sensitivity towards the children in the convention space reflects a severe oversight on the part of the organizers.
In response to the backlash on social media, the event organizers admitted to the shortcomings of the event due to time constraints in preparation. They acknowledged the need for improvement and expressed gratitude for the participants’ feedback. While they promised to take the feedback into account for future events, the extent of the damage to their reputation remains to be seen.
Personal Reflection
BintuRita’s criticism of the ‘Pokeverse’ convention sheds light on the importance of proper planning, execution, and sensitivity in organizing such events. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting the well-being and experience of attendees, particularly vulnerable individuals such as terminally ill children. Moving forward, event organizers must prioritize inclusivity, safety, and ethics to ensure the success and integrity of their events.
Overall, the ‘Pokeverse’ fan convention disaster in the Philippines serves as a cautionary tale for event organizers worldwide. It underscores the importance of meticulous planning, effective communication, and a genuine commitment to creating a positive and memorable experience for attendees. The fallout from this event should prompt a reevaluation of industry standards and ethics to prevent similar mishaps in the future.
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