Outstanding local films that showcased the beauty and natural wonders of the Philippines were recognized by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) in a well-organzied and attended event at the Diamond Hotel recently.
The local films that were honored included such esteemed titles like Apocalpyse Child by Mario Cornejo, Siargao by Paul Soriano, Camp Sawi by Irene Villamor, Patay na si Hesus by Victor Villanueva, Paglipay by Zigcarlo Dulay and Kiko Boksingero by Thop Nazareno. Special citations were also given to two South Korean films: Mango Tree by Lee Soo-sung, which was shot in Cebu; and Cheol Woo-wang’s Romantic Island, shot in Boracay.
The TPB is an attached agency of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and is headed by actor-politician Cesar Montano, who is also spearheading the new campaign of his office, called “Cine Turismo.”
Montano shared that he’s very excited with this new campaign. “Film tourism shows a lot of promise and it’s a growing industry. The Philippines has amazing locations where film companies and filmmakers can shoot their stories for the big screen, and for the last few years, our local movies, specifically independent films, have shown and shared to the world that we have interesting and beautiful locations that can serve as a backdrop to their movies.”
The agency head added that because of this rise in making movies outside the big metropolis, awareness is created and local tourist spots are highlighted. “We have some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and the most interesting sights and landscapes. I’m just happy that, as an actor-filmmaker and a public servant, I’m able to work with the film industry to bring these places to more people around the world.”
Many reckon the campaign comes at a perfect time, since the film tourism bill (Senate Bill 1330) is still officially pending. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Grace L. Poe and was introduced by Sen. Juan Edgardo M. Angara, recognizes the potential of international and local film productions not only to raise the country’s international profile, but also to create jobs and contribute to the growing economy.
Poe is the daughter of actress Susan Roces and the late action king of Philippines movies, Fernando Poe Jr., who failed in his attempt to become president of the Philippines; while Angara’s family financed the production of the historical movie, Baler, a few years ago.
Many film industry practitioners look forward to the passing of this bill very soon because it also offers tempting incentives to production companies that will promote local and regional destinations, and unmask the historical and cultural heritage that is distinctly Filipino, and expose the talents of the Filipinos, both creative and technical, in foreign productions that will choose to film in the Philippines.
We have seen how hardworking Montano is as the COO of the TPB in several occasions, like his presence in many of the overseas film markets and international film expositions where Philippine-produced films are being sold and marketed. During last year’s FilMart in Hong Kong, we spoke to Montano briefly at the Philippine pavilion of the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and he was very happy that a lot of foreigners are showing interest in Philippine made movies.
Incidentally, Montano has an unfinished film, Sultan Kudarat, a historical film about the colorful life of Muhammad Dipatuan Kudarat, a warrior and hero from Mindanao. “My work at the TPB is my priority, but if time permits for us to continue production and finish the movie, I will make time for it because it’s looming to be a promising film.”