Part II of "Should We Do Desperate Moves About the Supposed “Desperate Housewives” Slur on RP's Med Schools?"

An Official Response from the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles

KONSULADO PANLAHAT NG PILIPINAS  LOS ANGELES  

CONSULATE GENERAL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Mr. MARK PEDOWITZ

President

ABC Television Network
500 S. Buena Vista street
BurbankCA 91521-4551
Fax# 818-460-5636

2 October 2007

SIR:

    The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles wishes to express its strong displeasure over a derogatory remark made against Philippine medical schools in a recent episode of "Desperate Housewives." In the September 30, 2007 episode, the character, Susan Mayer Delfino, played by actress Teri Hatcher, said: "Okay, before we go any further, can I check those diplomas? Because I would just like to make sure they are not from some med school in the Philippines. "

    We wish to point out that the Philippine medical profession is highly regarded all over the world, as evidenced by the high demand for Filipino healthcare professionals in many countries, including this country. The United States recognizes the academic standards of Philippine medical and nursing schools, and in general, does not require additional schooling in this county for Filipino healthcare professionals who wish to work here. Moreover, the Philippines is considered a top Medical Tourism destination, with many foreigners, including US citizens, who choose to undergo surgical and other medical procedures in the country in recognition of its high quality and reasonably-priced medical services.

    We believe that a popular series such as "Desperate Housewives" need not resort to making such prejudicial statements in order to generate humor. It is most unfortunate that the remarks made at the recent episode only served to create racial stereotypes, thereby tainting unnecessarily the excellent record of Filipino healthcare professionals all over the world.

    We will therefore appreciate the ABC Network's immediate and concrete steps to rectify the injustice done against Filipino healthcare professionals.

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