MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Acclaimed filmmaker, screenwriter and educator Jose Javier Reyes has been officially reappointed as Chairman and CEO of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), following the successful completion of his partial term.
The reappointment was formalized at the Court of Appeals, where Chairman Reyes took his oath of office before the Honorable Selma Palacio-Alaras, with FDCP Officer-in-Charge and Head of the Education Division Rica Arevalo standing witness.
Joey first stepped into the role in April 2024, taking over from former Chairman Tirso “Pip” Cruz III. With decades of storytelling expertise and a profound understanding of the audiovisual landscape, Reyes has proven to be a strategic and empathetic leader bringing energy, focus and a long-term vision to the development of Philippine cinema.
Joey’s initial term was marked by clear-sighted leadership, particularly in addressing the effects of the pandemic on the local film industry. Under his direction, the FDCP collaborated with De La Salle University to conduct an in depth, nationwide study on the Habits and Preferences of Filipino Moviegoers. Released in June 2025, the research aims to equip industry stakeholders with actionable insights to inform a long-term, evidence-based roadmap for the next decade of Filipino cinema.
This data-centric approach signals a shift toward strategic planning grounded in audience behavior – helping filmmakers, distributors, and policymakers create content and policies aligned with evolving viewing patterns.
Recognizing that the future of film begins in the classroom, the FDCP, under Reyes’ leadership, launched the inaugural Film Education Convention (FilmEc) in 2024, hosted at De La Salle College of Saint Benilde.
The convention brought together students, educators and industry leaders from across the country for discourse, training, and collaboration – cementing FDCP’s dedication to professional development and critical film education. Following the success of its first installment, FilmEc is set to expand nationwide, forming a recurring platform for building a globally competitive creative workforce.
With his reappointment secured, Joey is set to lead the agency through the next three years of transformation. Key priorities include:
- Expanding current educational and funding programs
- Deepening international partnerships
- Promoting underrepresented film genres and formats
- Enhancing production incentives
- Continuing film restoration and archiving efforts
Preparations are already underway for Philippine Film Industry Month this September, which will spotlight the contributions of women in Philippine cinema past, present and future.
“I am very happy with the trust that has been given to me. I know that the time is limited and the problems seem to be insurmountable, but that is the challenge, and I love challenges, and I am so lucky to have a team that is equally motivated to face them.” Joey stated.
