Facebook has issued an apology for accidentally declaring the Philippines was at war.
The company ran a graphic using the country’s flag, intending to celebrate Independence Day in the country, but unintentionally sent another message as well.
The Philippine Star quickly pointed out online the flag was upside down, with its red stripe on top and blue stripe on the bottom, meaning that a state of war existed.
“Happy Independence Day! Here’s to all of the Philippines’ health, happiness and prosperity,” the Facebook banner read.
According to Philippine law, the flag should only be displayed in that configuration during times of war. On Sunday, Facebook users saw the banner at the top of their News Feeds and many took to social media to point out the mistake.
Facebook quickly acknowledged the mistake, and issued an apology on Sunday.
“This was unintentional, and we’re sorry,” the company told The Philippine Star in a statement. “We care deeply about the community in the Philippines and, in an attempt to connect people on Independence Day, we made a mistake.”
upi.com
