MANILA, Philippines – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) held its Film Industry Conference on October 24-25 at the Saffron Grand Ballroom in Lanson Place, Pasay City. Featuring six hybrid sessions, the conference brought together experts to discuss essential industry topics, such as intellectual property, regional cinema, the streaming model, and film archiving. Program Head Floanne Taiño noted that the conference supports both industry experts and aspiring filmmakers in championing Philippine cinema.

Session 1 addressed intellectual property rights specific to Filipino filmmakers, with insights from the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines’ Atty. Louie Calvario and other legal experts. This session focused on educating creators about protecting their work and contributions.

Session 2 explored the distinctive cultural elements in Philippine regional cinema, led by Hundred Islands Film Festival Director Dr. Raquel Rarang Rivera, among others. The session examined how language, culture, and storytelling reflect the nation’s diverse regions.

Session 3 analyzed the transition of films from theaters to streaming platforms, a vital shift in today’s distribution methods. Unitel Straight Shooters Media, Inc. President and CEO Madonna Tarrayo and VMX Head of Content Aggregation Ronald Arguelles discussed hybrid cinema-to-platform release models.

Session 4 focused on film archiving and restoration. This panel, which included ABS-CBN Film Restoration Head Leo Katigbak, covered the role of preserving cinema for future generations and discussed archiving challenges within the industry.

Session 5 addressed the support role of government, with discussions from the MTRCB and FDCP on funding, grants, and cultural exchange initiatives that boost film production.

Session 6 highlighted the advantages of international co-productions, combining financial and creative resources for broader market access and expanded project scopes.

At the close, FDCP Executive Director Dan Morales and Education Division Head Rica Arevalo presented certificates of appreciation to all speakers and moderators, recognizing their contributions to Philippine cinema and the industry’s future.

FAQ

Q: What is the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP)?
A: The FDCP is a government agency dedicated to supporting and promoting the Philippine film industry.

Q: What topics were covered at the Film Industry Conference?
A: Sessions covered intellectual property, regional cinema, cinema-to-streaming models, film archiving, government support, and international co-productions.

Q: When and where was the Film Industry Conference held?
A: It took place on October 24-25, 2024, at Lanson Place in Pasay City, Philippines.

Q: Who organized the Film Industry Conference?
A: The FDCP organized the event, bringing together industry leaders and government representatives.

Q: Why was film archiving discussed at the conference?
A: Archiving was highlighted as crucial for preserving Philippine cinema for future generations, emphasizing challenges and opportunities in the field.

Q: What benefits do international co-productions bring to the Philippine film industry?
A: Co-productions provide access to financial resources, incentives, and global markets, enhancing the reach and quality of Philippine films.