Hailing from Antique and fluent in Hiligaynon, Savet has dedicated her craft to promoting the rich cultural identity and storytelling traditions of Western Visayas.
Her acceptance into the FDCP’s elite program marks a vital transition into a broader cinematic space, where she trains with some of the country’s promising screen actors.
Aubrey Savet in Sa Pwesto ni Pistong
Savet’s acting resume includes Bacolod Film Festival 2024 big winner “Sa Pwesto ni Pistong” by Vincent Joseph Entuna, “Everyone Knows Every Juan” by Alessandra de Rossi, and Metro Manila filmfest 2024 awardee “Isang Himala” by Pepe Diokno.
Her commitment to original Filipino staging has seen her take part in “Ang Bata Kag Ang Ilaga,” written in Hiligaynon, Kinaray-a, and English by Liane Carlo Suelan and directed by Siglo for The Virgin Labfest, dedicated to untried, untested, and unstaged plays.
Aubrey Savet with Direk Joey and other actors in The Master Series FDCP Acting Workshop for Filipino Talents 2026
Savet’s versatile artistic background extends into puppetry and stage production. In “Ang Bata Kag Ang Ilaga,” she blended traditional acting with an innocent, childlike tone dictated by the play’s intricate shadow and live puppetry elements.
When she is not on spotlight, Savet pours her passion into molding the next generation of creative minds. She shares her theatrical expertise as the Theater Production Head at the Bataan High School for the Arts, helping shape young students into future pioneers of the country’s cultural sector.
Aubrey Savet with Sa Pwesto ni Pistong production team
The FDCP Master Series Acting Workshop, currently being facilitated by veteran directors Laurice Guillen, Jose Javier “Direk Joey” Reyes, and Joel Lamangan, serves as a testing ground designed to refine the skills of emerging and practicing actors.
For an artist connected to her roots like Savet, the opportunity opens new avenues to bring authentic, nuanced regional narratives onto the national and international screen.
The Film Development Council of the Philippines and the Filipino Screenwriters Guild recently conducted a five-day intensive Screenwriting Workshop in Malolos in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Bulacan and its Provincial History, Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office.
FDCP Chair and CEO Jose Javier Reyes opened the workshop with a video message, hoping to transform raw ideas into compelling scripts under the guidance of industry professionals.
The program offered a deep dive into the craft of screenwriting through a series of lectures, film viewings, script analysis, and open forums. The mentors from FSG included Wanggo Gallaga, Noreen Capili, Paul Sta. Ana, and Jules Katanyag, all respected writers in the film industry.
The first day focused on the fundamentals of scriptwriting and visual storytelling, with impactful lectures conducted by the mentors. Participants also presented their submitted scripts, fostering collaboration and creative exchange through valuable feedback from mentors and peers.
The second day delved into the essentials of scene building, genre, and tone, which significantly enriched the participants’ learning experience.
The workshop culminated at the Mariano Ponce Hall, Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center, where participants received certificates and engaged in a panel discussion with their mentors.
Mentors and participants alike shared positive feedback about the experience.
“Creatives are craving connection with other Filipino creatives, and there is a dearth of spaces where this magic could happen. I’m thankful that FDCP and FSG are providing platforms where storytellers could connect to talk about Filipino storytelling and build stories together to rediscover the narratives that make us who we are,” Katanyag, who also directs films, imparted.
Melvin Waje Reyes, one of the participants, described the workshop as “a sprinkle of fairy dust” that sparked new ideas and perspectives. “Meeting new people, sitting next to them, and listening as they share their stories – the ones that echo their personal journeys and the things closest to their hearts – is such a unique and meaningful experience,” he shared.
Kim Timan, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Film from De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in 2017, realized that learning really never stops. “The workshop was such an insightful and humbling experience. We were a hodgepodge of people from different ages, cultural backgrounds, and skill levels – but we all had something to bring to the table,” she concluded.
The FDCP, under its government mandate, leads the Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM). In its fourth year, PFIM 2024 promises an unforgettable tribute to the nation’s cinematic heritage, with the theme ‘Tuloy ang Tradisyon ng Pelikulang Pilipino,’ honoring the legacies of National Artists for Film, especially marking the 100th birth anniversary of Eddie Romero.
Throughout September, the FDCP will bring the nation together through a series of film screenings, events, and new initiatives designed to showcase the cultural and historical importance of these cinematic icons.
Below is the calendar of activities for the Philippine Film Industry Month 2024:
Sept. 1 – PFIM Opening Ceremony at the Metropolitan Theater
The Philippine Film Industry Month will commence with a special screening of Eddie Romero’s 1980 period drama film “Aguila” and a mini-exhibit for Eddie Romero at the historic Metropolitan Theater. Through this special tribute, the FDCP aims to pay homage to Romero’s cinematic legacy that continues to inspire contemporary Filipino filmmakers and audiences.
This event is in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Metropolitan Theater with the support of FPJ Productions.
Sept. 4-27 – Pamanang Pelikula: Honoring the Masterpieces of National Film Legends at FDCP Cinematheque Centres
The FDCP will present classic films by National Artists at Cinematheque Centres in Manila, Iloilo, Negros, Davao, and Nabunturan, with accompanying talkbacks. On September 4, Cinematheque Centre Manila will host an exhibit and screening of canonical works that significantly contributed to Philippine cinema.
The films to be screened at Cinematheque Centres nationwide are: ● “Aguila” directed by Eddie Romero ● “Anak Dalita” by Lamberto Avellana ● “Ang Panday” directed by Fernando Poe, Jr. ● “Bulaklak ng City Jail” directed by Mario O’Hara and top-billed by Nora Aunor ● “Genghis Khan” by Manuel Conde ● “Karnal” directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya and written by Ricky Lee ● “Manila by Night” directed by Ishmael Bernal ● “Maynila sa mga Kuko ng Liwanag” directed by Lino Brocka ● “Moises Padilla Story” directed by Gerry de Leon ● “Perfumed Nightmares” directed by Kidlat Tahimik
Sept. 13 – PFIM Gala Night at the Teatrino Promenade
The PFIM Gala Night, the highlight of Philippine Film Industry Month, will honor National Artists for Film with special performances by celebrities and celebrate industry milestones with filmmakers, luminaries, and officials.
Sept. 14 – Films for Peace Opening at Intramuros Centro de Turismo
The FDCP will officially launch Films for Peace on September 14 along with a special screening of Mario O’Hara’s “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos.” Films for Peace recognizes film as a powerful tool to promote conflict resolution, cultural dialogue, and social justice.
Sept. 15-21 – Films for Peace screenings at Cinematheque Centres
The Films for Peace lineup features Marilou Diaz-Abaya’s Bagong Buwan, Sheron Dayoc’s Women of the Weeping River, and Mario O’Hara’s Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos, screening nationwide at Cinematheque Centres.
On September 15, Cinematheque Centre Nabunturan will host a panel with Mindanaoan filmmakers and a screening of Kip Oebanda’s Liway, focusing on cinema’s role in promoting conflict resolution and social cohesion.
Sept. 17-18 – Film Education Convention (FilmEC) at De La Salle – College of Saint Benilde
The inaugural Film Education Convention (FilmEC) is a dynamic two-day event showcasing top student films, engaging panel discussions, and film book sales. Designed for students and educators, FilmEC aims to elevate film education in the Philippines and inspire the next generation of filmmakers.
Sept. 18-24 – PFIM x PCIM: Sine50: Pelikula ng Bayan Screenings and Film Talks at Trinoma, SM Southmall, Robinsons Galleria, and Cinematheque Centres
A joint celebration of PFIM and the Philippine Creative Industries Month (PFIM), Pelikula ng Bayan showcases regional films from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, celebrating Philippine cinema as a unified national treasure. In partnership with CEAP, selected films will screen at cinemas for only PHP 50.
● “Tu Pug Imatuy” by Arbi Barbarona ● “Cleaners” by Glenn Barit ● “Huwebes Huwebes” by Don Gerardo Frasco. Januar Yap, and Kris Villarino ● “Little Azkals” by Babyruth Villarama
Sept. 20-22 – Sine Kabataan Short Film Lab and Festival 2024 at Shangri-La Plaza
projects. Sine Kabataan, part of the PFIM celebration, offers a platform for youth to present their perspectives on contemporary issues through filmmaking.
Sept. 27 – PFIM x PCIM: DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch at Seda Vertis North
Following last year’s success, the FDCP and Directors’ Guild of the Philippines, Inc. will present DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch 2024. Fifteen selected filmmakers will pitch their projects to producers, with pre-event mentorship from an industry expert at the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch Workshop on September 7.
Sept. 27 – PFIM Closing Ceremony at Seda Vertis North
The FDCP will conclude the 4th Philippine Film Industry Month with a closing ceremony honoring contributors to Philippine cinema. The event will feature the announcement of the Philippine entry for the 97th Academy Awards, unveil FDCP’s upcoming initiatives, and showcase PFIM 2024 highlights and FDCP’s achievements.
By celebrating Philippine Film Industry Month, the FDCP reaffirms its commitment to nurturing and sustaining the growth of Philippine cinema.
For more news and updates, visit FDCP’s official pages on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) will hold the first-ever Film Education Convention (FilmEC) from September 17 to 18 at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde in Manila.
The FilmEC is a two-day convention which brings together film creatives from the academe and in the industry, in line with the FDCP’s continuous efforts to champion film education in the country.
The convention features screenings of selected student short films, panel discussions, plenary talks, film book sales, and networking opportunities for film students and educators.
FDCP Chair and Chief Executive Officer Jose Javier “Direk Joey” Reyes explained that the activity-filled event aims “to gather both teachers and students of film to converge, get to know one another and engage in conversations that will break barriers of language or institutional representation.”
The Academic Film Society has created an organizing committee, comprised of nine members from various AFS-registered universities and colleges to assist in preparing for and promoting the event.
They consist of Alec Berame, DLS-CSB; Patrick Campos, University of the Philippines Film Institute; David Corpuz, Mapúa University; Hector Barretto Calma, iACADEMY; Catherine Cequeña, Adamson University; Kareen Gancio, West Visayas State University; Maricon Montajes, UP Mindanao; Stanley Rovira, University of Makati; and Christina Stella Ustaris, Far Eastern University.
FDCP Project Development Officers Korina Dela Cruz, Jen-Lopez Marcos, and Marie Ira, Education Head Rica Arevalo, and Education Consultant Seymour Sanchez also attended the AFS meeting.
The FDCP will also host a series of pocket events, which includes student film screenings, talkback sessions, and film workshops in universities and Cinematheque Centres nationwide, to promote the convention.
AFS has curated a selection of student short films followed by talkback sessions with the filmmakers at Cinematheque Centre Manila last July 19 and at University of Makati on August 27, with more locations to be announced before the convention.
FDCP and the Filipino Screenwriters Guild (FSG) will also continue their regional screenwriting workshop for beginners. Five slots per region are open to AFS members in Iloilo, Negros, and Davao, aged 18 years old and above, with no professional screenwriting experience.
“We’re here to learn, immerse, and understand film education in the Philippines, exposing newcomers to real-world filmmaking,” Direk Joey stressed.
AFS member-schools have access to the FDCP’s Student Film Assistance Program (SFAP) and Film School workshops and specialized training programs, references, artifacts, and films available under its media library, mentors and resource persons for film education component, film exhibition platforms including Cinematheque Centres nationwide and JuanFlix: The FDCP Channel, FDCP ratings and permits, school event promotions, and other benefits.
The Film Development Council of the Philippines will reconvene with representatives of Academic Film Society member schools this week “to discuss the current trends and happenings concerning film education in the country.”
FDCP Project Development Officer Korina Dela Cruz shared that the AFS, a nationwide association of schools, colleges, and universities involved in film education, “has grown over the past few months since its launch last March 2023.” The agency’s Education Division has invited registered members to meet to further “promote the incorporation of film in institutional academic activities as well as training for teachers on how to use film in the classroom and in 21st century learning.”
Also expected to attend the meeting are FDCP Officer-in-Charge Rica Arevalo, Technical Consultant Jose Javier Reyes, Education Consultant Seymour Sanchez, and more than 30 program chairs, film professors, and reps of accredited academic institutions offering film, communication, visual arts, and other related courses, as well as teachers from senior high schools with arts-related programs.
The discussion aims to tackle “the different needs of the schools, including suggestions on how FDCP may serve their respective institutions” and “the proposal of a first-ever Film Education Convention to be held in September 2024,” among other related matters.
Among the registered AFS members from Metro Manila are Adamson University, Asia Pacific Film Institute, CIIT College of Arts and Technology, De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, DLSU Manila, Eugenio Lopez Jr. Center for Media Arts Senior High School, FEU Alabang, FEU Manila, iACADEMY, La Consolacion College Manila, LPU Manila, Manila Tytana Colleges, Manuel A. Roxas High School, Mapúa University, Meridian International Business and Arts Inc. (MINT), Miriam College, Olivarez College, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, San Beda College Alabang, St. Scholastica’s College, STI Ortigas, Treston International College, Universidad de Manila, University of Makati, University of the East Caloocan, UP Diliman, and UP Manila.
AFS members outside Metro Manila include Alaminos City National High School, Benilde Antipolo, Bicol University College of Arts and Letters, Biliran Province State University, Bulacan State University, DLSU-Dasmariñas, Francisco E. Barzaga Integrated High School, Laguna University, LPU Cavite, National University – Laguna, St. Dominic College of Asia, Partido State University (Camarines Sur), STI College Balagtas, The Manila Times College of Subic, UP Baguio, UP Mindanao, UP Visayas, University of San Agustin, University of San Carlos, University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, and West Visayas State University.
AFS-registered schools have access to the FDCP’s Student Film Assistance Program (SFAP) and Film School workshops and specialized training programs, references, artifacts, and films available under its media library, mentors and resource persons for film education component, film exhibition platforms including Cinematheque Centres nationwide and JuanFlix: The FDCP Channel, FDCP ratings and permits, school event promotions, and other benefits.
Through the AFS, the FDCP also encourages educational institutions and student organizations in the country “to mount their own student film festival to provide an avenue for student filmmakers to showcase their works and motivate them to produce more original projects.” The national agency has “existing programs for festival development which the members can apply to and utilize.”
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) remains committed to advancing the Philippine film industry with the conduct of this year’s International Film Industry Conference (IFIC) from November 20 to 21 through an in-person conference at Novotel in Quezon City with simultaneous broadcast via Zoom.
In partnership with QCinema International Film Festival and Full Circle Lab Philippines, the 7th edition of IFIC continues to create an avenue for filmmakers, students, and seasoned professionals to engage with industry experts and discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities that they can explore for the development, production, and distribution of their talents and projects.
This year’s conference will feature a series of free public sessions on relevant topics including film restoration, the role of social media in film festival marketing, the significance of post-production in the era of streaming, the power of international co-production in Asia, and the dynamics of distribution with sales agents and distributors.
In an effort to bridge the gap between the Philippine film industry and the international market, the IFIC will facilitate a roundtable discussion with the members of the Asian Film Alliance Network (AFAN) discussing the vital role of unity and collaboration within Asian film communities.
“The FDCP is proud to once again host the International Film Industry Conference (IFIC), offering our industry stakeholders great opportunities to expand their knowledge, grow their expertise, and absorb high value insights from exceptional speakers from both the country and from all over the world,” FDCP Chairman and CEO Tirso Cruz III said in a statement. “This event exemplifies the strong conviction of the FDCP in growing our beloved Philippine Film Industry to be at par with international standards and best practices.”
Interested participants looking to attend the free public sessions whether online or onsite may register through this link http://bit.ly/IFIC2023Registration. For more information on the latest updates on IFIC 2023, please visit its official Facebook page.
FULL SCHEDULE: DAY 1 | November 20, 2022 (Monday) Venue: 2nd Floor, Monet Ballroom 3, Novotel Manila Araneta City
Welcoming Address: FDCP Chairman and CEO Tirso Cruz III 1:25 PM – 1:30 PM
Session 1: Revitalizing History Through The Future of Film Restoration 1:30 PM – 2:40 PM
Panelists: Caroline Caruelle | Cite de Memoire Vivek Modi | Prasad Corporation Jim Lindner | Media Matters
Moderator: John Wong and RoseRoque
With the recognition of films as cultural investments, artistic wealth, and records of history, a film’s complete deterioration is truly a pressing issue. This panel session will talk about how film restoration is not merely a preservation effort but a transformative process that revitalizes cinematic masterpieces through modern-day processes and technologies, ensuring that can be cherished and appreciated by generations to come.
Session 2: The Cinematic Buzz: Film Festivals’ Success in The Social Media Landscape 2:50 PM – 4:00 PM
Panelists: Panos Kotzathanasis | Asian Movie Pulse Shinji Manlangit | Alphapanda Hing Cheung Jacob Wong | Hong Kong International Film Festival Industry Youngwoo Kim | Red Sea International Film Festival
Moderator: Ed Lejano
Social media has revolutionized film festival marketing and has given filmmakers and organizers an opportunity to easily engage with their audiences. They have become an important instrument for creating buzz around events and activities, facilitating viral marketing, and fostering a sense of community among film enthusiasts. This panel session will delve more into the leverage in social media marketing and how this has brought stories to a wider audience, redefining the dynamics of film festival promotion.
Session 3: Building Bridges through Film: A Roundtable Discussion with The Asian Film Alliance Network (AFAN) 4:10 PM – 5:20 PM
Panelists: Tirso Cruz III | Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Park Ki-yong | Korean Film Council (KOFIC) Alex Sihar | Indonesian Film Board (BPI) Dato’ Kamil Othman | National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) Jean Ng | Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA)/Singapore Film Commission (SFC)
Moderator: Lorna Tee
Film communities stand stronger and taller as allies arise. In this panel session, leaders of the Asian Film Alliance Network (AFAN) will talk about the significance of solidarity and cooperation between Asian communities in the film industry, as well as, how the AFAN can help in fostering crucial areas in filmmaking–such as, co-production, co-financing, technological exchanges, training and education, and cultural workshops as well as screenings.
DAY 2 | November 21, 2022 (Tuesday) Venue: 2nd Floor, Monet Ballroom 3, Novotel Manila Araneta City
Session 4: The Power of Co-Production: Cinematic Alliances Within Asia 1:30 PM – 2:40 PM
Panelists: Armi Cacanindin | Producer, “Whether the Weather is Fine” Si En Tan | Producer, “Don’t Cry Butterfly” Amanda Nell Eu | Director, “Tiger Stripes” Lay Jin Ong | Director, “Abang Adik”
Moderator: Lorna Tee
This panel dives into the world of co-production within Asia through comprehensive case studies of four film projects. In this session, featured directors and producers will share insights into the complexities of cross-border collaborations, addressing diverse cultural nuances, overcoming logistical challenges, and uncovering the secrets behind successful co-production ventures.
Session 5: Redefining Post-Production: Unpacking Its Importance for Excellent Streaming 2:50 PM – 4:00 PM
Panelists: Paul Andrew Stevens | Space Lion Studios Chai Yee Wei | Mocha Chai Lab Vincent Villa | Kongchuk Studio Loy Te | Kongchuk Studio
Moderator: Manet A. Dayrit
In the world of streaming platforms, post-production plays an important role in delivering high-quality content to audiences worldwide. As streaming services and content fiercely compete for viewers’ attention, impeccable post-production is a must. In this public session, invited panelists will share the significance of post-production in streaming to ensure that films and series meet industry standards and viewer expectations.
Session 6: Connecting Cultures: Navigating The Dynamics of Distribution with Sales Agents and Distributors 4:10 PM – 5:20 PM
Panelists: Maria A. Ruggieri | Chinese Shadows Ariel Cayer | Kani Releasing Tina Tubongbanua | VIVA
Moderator: Wilfredo Manalang
Film sales agents and distributors serve as indispensable intermediaries, playing vital roles in the industry by connecting filmmakers with audiences. Despite their distinct functions and responsibilities, these professionals collaborate seamlessly to ensure each film project reaches its intended platform and audience. This session explores strategies for filmmakers to engage and build connections with both sales agents and distributors, offering insights into navigating the dynamic landscape of film distribution.
Film Development Council of the Philippines ADDRESS: 855 T.M. Kalaw Street, Ermita, Manila, Philippines 1000 PHONE: (+632) 8 251-7493 | (+632) 8 256-9908 E-MAIL: mediadesk@fdcp.ph WEB: https://www.fdcp.ph/
With their contributions not just to the local film industry but also to the country’s popular culture, the FDCP will bring into the forefront the significance of Philippine comedy over and beyond the entertainment value it serves to the public by honoring Filipino personalities whose names have become synonymous with what Pinoy comedy is.
Michael V.
In his more than three decades in the industry, Beethoven Bunagan, most popularly known as “Bitoy” or Michael V., has been widely regarded as one of the most prolific comedians in the country.
As one of the brains behind “Bubble Gang,” the longest-running comedy show in the Philippines, Bitoy, with his genius in creating characters such as “Yaya Angelina,” “Bonggang Bonggang Bongbong,” “Mr. Assimo,” and “Doña Yna Moran” among others, has skillfully pulled off and made his brand of comedy, mixed with satire and social commentary, a phenomenon in itself.
Eugene Domingo
Known in the industry as “Uge,” Eugene Domingo started out as a theater stalwart who has worked with theater icons and National Artists Tony Mabesa and Ishmael Bernal before she became the film and tv actress that she is now.
Among the films she starred in include her titular role in the “Kimmy Dora” franchise and in Marlon Rivera’s award-winning film “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank” which was also the country’s official entry to the Academy Awards in 2011.
Uge has managed to bring the discipline and nuances shaped by theater to television and screen to create intelligent characters and to raise the level of comedy to more than just a popular art.
Ai-Ai Delas Alas
Martina Eileen Hernandez, also known as Ai-Ai Delas Alas, is widely regarded as the country’s Queen of Comedy. Her comedic talent has earned her some box office hits like the “Ang Tanging Ina” franchise directed by the late Wenn Deramas.
Aside from doing comedy shows and films, Ai-Ai Delas Alas also excels in dramatic roles which earned her accolades in numerous award-giving bodies here and abroad. Among the recognitions she received were the Best Actress Award from the Los Angeles Philippine International Film Festival in the USA for the drama titled “Area” and the PMPC Star Awards for TV Best Single Performance for her role in the drama-anthology series “Maalaala Mo Kaya.”
Ai-Ai’s more than three decades in showbiz has allowed her to craft the style of acting that can range from slapstick to dramatic, while personifying the faces of entertainment in her iconic roles on both the small and big screen.
Vice Ganda
From doing standup comedy at comedy bars to becoming one of the most sought-after comedians in the country, Jose Marie Viceral popularly known as “Vice Ganda,” has truly become an icon in her own rights.
Blockbuster hits, high-rating television shows, advertisements, and sold out concerts here and abroad are proof of the influence she holds in the industry. Vice Ganda has established a distinction in the industry never before achieved by a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Tito, Vic, and Joey
Continuously standing the test of time is the trio of Tito and Vic Sotto and Joey De Leon, collectively known as the TVJ. For more than five decades, TVJ has been able to transcend the changes brought by time and has since become everyone’s “dabarkads” through the longest-running television show in GMA Network.
TVJ is also able to embody authentic Filipino humor, proving their ability to build and establish rapport with the evolving audience in a highly-competitive market of the industry.
The late Comedy King, Dolphy
The undisputed and irreplaceable King of Comedy, the late Rodolfo “Dolphy” Quizon, is the highlight of this year’s PFIM as the industry pays tribute to his contributions to the entertainment industry.
Dolphy was the ultimate personification of the Filipino Everyman, representing the fusion of the two faces of entertainment—both tears and laughter. His brand of comedy was able to transcend beyond different generations and eras of entertainment that include bodabil, television, and films.
The late King of Comedy will be conferred with the FDCP’s Highest Honors for being the multimedia artist who represents the brightest of Filipino comedy.
The Awarding Ceremony will be held on September 29 at Acacia Hotel Manila during the Closing Ceremony of PFIM 2023. A grand tribute for the late King of Comedy will also happen as the tradition of humor and laughter continues and be carried by the younger generation of comedians.
Through the celebration of the PFIM 2023, the FDCP aims to celebrate Philippine Comedy—what it meant to us before and how important it is to us now.
For more updates on PFIM 2023, follow FDCP on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
To create opportunities for filmmakers to collaborate with industry leaders and financiers for the development of their film projects, the Directors’ Guild of the Philippines, Inc. (DGPI) partners with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) for the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch, which will be held on September 16 and 29 during the celebration of the Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM).
The DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch is open to filmmakers and producers with upcoming film projects in need of financing and assistance in various stages of filmmaking—development, production, or post-production. Participants include filmmakers, producers, post-production companies, distributors, government agencies, and industry stakeholders.
A selection panel will choose 15 outstanding projects based on their synopsis, filmmaker profile, and project feasibility with a proposed budget, financial plan, and timetable. The finalists will then pitch their projects during the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch at PFIM on September 29, with the aim of finding a business partner such as a co-producer or financier.
Using the speed-dating format, each filmmaker gets a maximum of seven (7) minutes to discuss the details and objectives of their project with their partner. Afterwards, the participants and panel members will select the best project pitch that will receive a special prize by the end of the event.
Prior to this event, a Film Pitch Workshop will take place at the Cinematheque Centre Manila on September 16. This workshop aims to guide the finalists in pitching their projects to potential financiers and develop their knowledge and competence in film financing.
In line with the celebration of PFIM and its goal of fostering the local film industry, the DGPI-FDCP Film Pitch aims to aid selected filmmakers in gaining knowledge about film financing and forming partnerships with co-producers. This film pitch is also an opportunity to discover new, innovative talents in the industry and start a creative discourse between filmmakers and industry stakeholders.
Applications are open until September 1. The application form and guidelines are available on DGPI’s Facebook page.
For more news and announcements, follow FDCP on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
From August 23 to 29, Ayala Malls Cinemas, in collaboration with the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and steered by Chairman Tirso Cruz III, will be offering a special curation of globally renowned films through their A-List Series. This partnership seeks to promote a diverse cinematic experience for the Philippine audience.
Aiming to deliver a rich cinematic experience, Ayala Malls Cinemas ensures that these world-renowned films are easily accessible to enthusiasts across the country. The series boasts award-winning gems from the Cannes Film Festival, BAFTA Awards, Oscars, and the Asia Pacific Screen Awards.
AFTERSUN, a BAFTA winner for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer and Director (Charlotte Wells) stars Paul Mescal whose work in the film earned him a nomination at this year’s Oscars while his co-star Frankie Corio received glowing reviews for her breakout role. Aftersun takes us through the lens of memories between father and daughter, Calum and Sophie. At a fading vacation resort, 11-year-old Sophie treasures rare time together with her loving and idealistic father, Calum (Paul Mescal). As the world of adolescence creeps into view, beyond her eye, Calum struggles under the weight of life outside of fatherhood. Twenty years later, Sophie’s tender recollections of their last holiday become a powerful and heartrending portrait of their relationshipas she tries to reconcile with the father she knew and with the man she didn’t, in director Charlotte Wells’ superb and searingly emotional debut film.
CLOSE is the winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival (2022).Lukas Dhont’s second film is an emotionally transformative and unforgettable portrait of the intersection of friendship and love, identity and independence, and heartbreak and healing where Leo (Eden Dambrine) and Remi (Gustav De Waele) are two thirteen-year-old best friends, whose seemingly unbreakable bond is suddenly, tragically torn apart.
CORSAGE is a fictional account of one year in the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria directed by Marie Kreutzer. On Christmas Eve 1877, Elisabeth (played by Vicky Krieps who also won the Best Performance in the 2022 Cannes Film Festival), once idolized for her beauty, then when she turns 40 and is officially deemed an old woman, she starts trying to maintain her public image.
RETURN TO SEOUL introduces newcomer Park Ji-Min who won 2022’s Best New Performance at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards along with Davy Chou who also bagged the Best Director award. The movie takes us along Freddie’s (Park) impulsive travel decision to visit friends at South Korea. Freddie returns to South Korea, where she was born, for the first timebefore being adopted and raised in France. She suddenly finds herself embarking on an unexpected journey in a country she knows so little about, taking her life in new and unexpected directions. The film also stars favorite K-drama actors Oh Kwang-rok (Healer) and Kim Sun-Young (Reply 1988).
Committed to its vision of celebrating arts and culture, Ayala Malls continues to elevate the movie-watching experience for its patrons. With exclusive offerings such as these, film aficionados can anticipate many more cinematic masterpieces that you can only look forward to at Ayala Malls Cinemas.
Book your tickets now at any of your preferred Ayala Malls Cinemas across the nation: Manila Bay Cinema, Greenbelt 3, Trinoma, Solenad, Capitol Central, Central Bloc, Centrio Cinema, Abreeza and Harbor Point. With tickets priced at P250 in Metro Manila and P200 in provinces, this cinematic fest is a must-experience.
Stay updated with the latest news by following Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook. Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the rich tapestry of global cinema, exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas.
The Film Aficionados Circle (FilAC), the official student film organization of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines College of Communication, is gearing up for more film-related activities after recently concluding “Sineminuto: Buhayin at Lakbayin, Pelikulang Atin!” with the theme “Lakbay.”
“As the only film organization in PUP, we really want to give a platform to aspiring filmmakers on campus. Sineminuto is like a bridge for the mentees of the Film Aficionados Circle into the basics of film production,” Adelbert Abrigonda, FilAC President, shared.
Carousel Productions
“Bakit Maingay ang EDSA?” which was directed by Rafael Nuyad of Carousel Productions bagged the Sineminuto Best Film award. The short film about two homeless siblings wandering around the highway also won Best Male Performance for Ralph Capinig, who played Anthony, Best Screenplay, Best Sound Design, and Best Concept. It placed second in terms of direction, cinematography, and editing.
Nilay Productions with Adelbert Abrigonda and Rod Marmol
“The Portrait of a Man” from Nilay Productions got Best Direction for Ronalyn Antonio, Best Production Design, and Best Editing. It ranked second overall in film, screenplay, and sound design categories.
Meanwhile, “meet me halfway” from After Hours Production finished third and received Best Female Performance for Frances Danielle Tan as Emma and Best Cinematography, as well as second in production design.
“En Route” from Loop Productions brought home the second best concept among those which were realized into films for Sineminuto. The only horror film entry in the competition tells the story of a student who gets trapped in an infinite loop on a hallway in campus, preventing her from attending her class.
“Balikat” by ACDK Pictures, “Kaya Kaya” by Aninuno Productions, “Pihit” by 2RDS Productions, “Urong Sulong” by Yapak Productions, and “Yapak” by Amping Productions completed the Sineminuto entries.
Director and screenwriter Rod Marmol, filmmaker/photographer Arjanmar Rebeta, producer and writer Seymour Sanchez, PUP scriptwriting and TV production professor George Gamayo, and FilAC alumnus Edrian Pabona made up the jury for Sineminuto, FilAC’s flagship event for student filmmakers.
FilAC also recently became a member of the Academic Film Society of the Film Development Council of the Philippines. The organization plans to hold more events to promote and teach the art of filmmaking to students who share their passion for cinema.
Through the AFS, the FDCP provides support and makes resources more accessible in the academic setting. As part of its initiative, the FDCP co-presented Sineminuto with FilAC together with IDP Philippines, Motivo PH, Urban Chick, M’ Finesse PH, and Cinemata, Sineminuto’s official media partner.
Abrigonda was elated that Sineminuto mentees were able to showcase their craft through their films and apply “what they have learned from the PelikuLearn sessions” that FilAC spearheaded this year with National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee and director Jules Katanyag among their mentors. “I’m also happy to see the enthusiasm of the student filmmakers and their desire to develop their passions into something meaningful through their work. This is something to be proud of and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the organization will grow more in the future. Especially now since there are many students in the campus who are very eager to explore the world of filmmaking,” he concluded.
