The film and audiovisual industry in the Philippines, while classified as a non-essential business sector, has been integral in our daily life. It has long been ingrained in the Filipino experience through the consumption of film and audiovisual content, witnessing of live events and performances, and appreciation and preservation of culture and the arts.
Since there are aid packages for affected tourism stakeholders, the FDCP humbly asks for similar assistance initiatives from the government, being the national film agency responsible for policies and programs to ensure the cultural, economic, and educational development of Philippine cinema. In the position paper and Senate Committee Hearing speech, I explained the industry’s current dire situation and justified the need for government support. I expressed support for provisions and cited recommendations that came from consultations and brainstorming sessions among our stakeholders.
As we welcome the call to go over trade policies, we hope for a review on regulatory policies such as the levy of amusement tax under the local government code. This will help producers, proprietors, operators of venues, and lessees recover from the loss of income and defray the anticipated increase in production costs.
Subsidy loans may be provided for ICT equipment and software through the support of the Department of Information and Communications Technology while the implementation of laws covering IP rights can be ensured by the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines.