Same deal over there in the Philippines...

Of course they do! It's about showing diversity and multi-culturalism.

Here in the US, we want our television to depict minorities and people with disabilities. Well, Mexicans, Indians, and the Fillipinos want that, too - hence why there's a conscious effort to include persons of non-colour.

EH's schtick is alternatingly tiresome and a pure delight.

This time it's half and half.

EH, it would be so much better if we had hundreds of active site members. As it is, it's like just hanging out with a guy who does that schtick all the time.

Actually Homer, I think it has to do with class. The advertisers are either trying to appeal to the wealthy or people's view of the upper class lifestyle, and for them they equate wealth with lighter skin.

I'm glad to have read EH's post days later, and in bone-chillingly cold weather, so as not to become uber perturbed.

Class is a great example of diversity, too. If most of your country is living in crushing poverty, then it is clearly very progressive and forward-thinking to represent the wealthy minority.