September is the First Philippine Film Industry Month
By Ivan Jethro Balagtas
September 08, 2021
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has welcomed September with the first ever Philippine Film Industry Month.
All throughout the month, the council has arranged events, conferences, and workshops in pursuit of “the heritage, significance, and legacy of Philippine Cinema” in line with the Presidential Proclamation No. 1085 which highlights the “invaluable contribution and sacrifices of all stakeholders and sectors of the film industry, as well as provide avenues to showcase and celebrate the achievements and progress of the discipline of film and filmmaking.”
In lieu of traditional month-long celebrations, like all large-scale events in the country, the Philippine Film Industry Month 2021 will entirely be held online via official social media accounts and the FDCP channel (https://fdcpchannel.ph/)
Eight monumental films restored or enhanced by the FDCP Philippine Film Archive are also available for free screening on the FDCP channel. The selection includes "Insiang", the seminal film by National Artist Lino Brocka and "Manila by Night" by National Artist Ishmael Bernal.
The 5th Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino, the flagship program, will also be screened on the FDCP channel.
On September 25 to 30, at least 12 films of the revered Elwood Perez will be screened. The Philippine Film Archive will also host an online museum for Perez in celebration of his stellar career and contributions to Filipino cinema.
The Philippine Film Industry Month celebrates Filipino creativity through the silver screen and bridges generations of filmmakers. With programs like this, there is greater optimism for a greater future for Filipino creatives in the film industry.
