A photography service provider and a catering company have issued public apologies after facing widespread backlash online over a controversial concept presented during a corporate event, where employees were made to appear as “human trays” and “standing lamps.”
The issue stemmed from viral photos and videos taken during the 20th anniversary celebration of Nice Print Photo, showing catering staff carrying food trays on their shoulders and heads, resembling tables while serving guests.
The imagery quickly drew criticism from netizens, who described the setup as “degrading” and “dehumanizing.”
In a statement released on Sunday, March 22, Nice Print Photo said the concept “was intended as an artistic performance” and emphasized that it was never their intention to be insensitive.
“While the concept was intended as an artistic performance, we duly recognize that the execution was perceived by some as insensitive and may have caused discomfort,” the company said.
The company apologized and assured the public that it would be more mindful and critical in developing creative concepts for future events.
The catering team involved in the event also issued a separate apology, taking responsibility for how the service was experienced by attendees and viewers online.
“As a catering team, we take full responsibility for how our service is experienced. While the presentation was part of a broader creative direction for the event, we recognize that it may have caused discomfort to some,” the caterer said.
Earlier, beauty influencer Toni Sia also issued an apology after being linked to the viral content. In an Instagram Story posted during the event, Sia shared a photo showing catering staff with food trays placed on their shoulders and heads, appearing like tables as they served guests, accompanied by the caption “so bonggaaaa.”
The post drew criticism from netizens, who said the caption came across as insensitive given the situation.
"I sincerely apologize to everyone who felt hurt, offended, or uncomfortable because of it,” she wrote.
