MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) partnered with the prestigious FEST Film Lab to deliver a groundbreaking series of professional workshops aimed at sharpening the craft of Filipino filmmakers. Held from July 12 to 17 at Seda Manila Bay in Parañaque City, the FDCP x FEST Film Lab 2025 program brought together international film experts and local creatives for a week-long intensive learning experience.
FDCP Chairman and CEO Jose Javier Reyes opened the event with stirring words that set the tone for the week, urging participants to challenge conventions and elevate local storytelling. His call to action underscored the program’s overarching mission to bridge Filipino talent with global standards of cinematic excellence.
Following him, FEST Film Lab Head Filipe Pereira delivered a compelling welcome message, championing the initiative’s inclusive approach and its commitment to connecting all sectors of the film ecosystem.
At the heart of the workshops were some of the most decorated figures in contemporary cinema. Oscar nominated film editor Álex Rodríguez, acclaimed for Y Tu Mamá También and Children of Men, captivated participants with insights into the art of editing. He dissected narrative rhythm, structure and emotional flow, using scenes from the gripping war drama Mosul (2019) to illustrate his process.
Award-winning casting director Nancy Bishop (Casting Society of America, Artios Awards) led the “Auditioning for Film and TV” workshop. Participants engaged in live scene work, audition tape reviews and personalized feedback sessions. Her workshop became a masterclass in performance refinement and on camera presence.
The discipline of production design took center stage through the expertise of Gemma Jackson, two-time Emmy winner (Game of Thrones, John Adams), and Andrew McAlpine, a BAFTA laureate (The Piano). The duo walked attendees through their design journeys, showcasing concept art and iconic scenes while unpacking the visual storytelling behind their work.
Meanwhile, sound took a starring role in “Telling the Story with Sound,” led by Oscar winning sound mixer Mark Ulano (Titanic) and pioneering boom operator Patrushkha Mierzwa. The hands on sessions emphasized the integral relationship between sound, cinematography, and direction, offering practical exercises on mic concealment, sound capture, and team synergy.
Veteran producer Paul Miller brought a pragmatic lens to the industry in his class, “Film Financing in an Entrepreneurial Age.” Exploring topics from intellectual property to international co-productions, Miller’s session ended with a deep dive into pitching strategies and box office trends. Among his attendees was Ma-an L. Asuncion-Dagñalan, Cinemalaya winning director of Blue Room.
The week concluded with a media conference featuring all the mentors, where they shared their reflections on Filipino creativity, the depth of local talent, and their hopes for continued collaboration.
