MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), in collaboration with the Filipino Screenwriters Guild (FSG), successfully mounted the FDCP x FSG Screenwriting Workshop – a five-day intensive program designed to nurture emerging voices in Filipino cinema. Held in Malolos, Bulacan, the workshop brought together a diverse group of 20 aspiring screenwriters from Bulacan, CALABARZON, Davao de Oro, Iloilo, and Metro Manila for a week of creative immersion and mentorship.
The initiative was made possible through the support of the Provincial Government of Bulacan and its Provincial History, Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office (PHACTO). The workshop opened with a video message from FDCP Chairperson and CEO Jose Javier Reyes, who emphasized the agency’s mission to transform ideas into compelling screen narratives under the mentorship of seasoned industry professionals.
FDCP Chair and CEO Jose Javier Reyes kicked off the program with a video message, hoping to transform more ideas into compelling scripts under the guidance of industry professionals. PHACTO OIC Head May Arlene Torres welcomed the organizers from FDCP, the mentors from FSG, and the 20 participants from Bulacan, CALABARZON, Davao de Oro, Iloilo, and Metro Manila who were selected to undergo a transformative journey into the art of storytelling.
Led by some of the country’s most respected screenwriters: Wanggo Gallaga, Noreen Capili, Paul Sta. Ana, and Jules Katanyag – the workshop offered a dynamic blend of lectures, film screenings, script analysis, and collaborative feedback sessions. Throughout the week, the workshop became more than just a classroom and evolved into a space of connection, inspiration and discovery.
“Creatives are craving connection with other Filipino creatives, and there is a dearth of spaces where this magic could happen. I’m thankful that FDCP and FSG are providing platforms where storytellers could connect to talk about Filipino storytelling and build stories together to rediscover the narratives that make us who we are,” Katanyag, who also directs films, imparted.
Melvin Waje Reyes, one of the participants, described the workshop as “a sprinkle of fairy dust” that sparked new ideas and perspectives. “Meeting new people, sitting next to them, and listening as they share their stories – the ones that echo their personal journeys and the things closest to their hearts – is such a unique and meaningful experience,” he shared.
The workshop concluded with a culminating event at the Mariano Ponce Hall in the Hiyas ng Bulacan Convention Center, where participants received certificates and took part in a mentor-led panel discussion. The closing remarks were delivered by Roella Frias, Executive Assistant from the Office of the Governor of Bulacan, who expressed the province’s appreciation for hosting the event.
Capping off the celebration was a special video message from National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts and FSG adviser Ricky Lee, whose words left the participants inspired to continue their screenwriting journeys with renewed passion and purpose.
As FDCP and FSG continue their efforts to champion Filipino stories and nurture the next generation of screenwriters, the FDCP x FSG Screenwriting Workshop stands as a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and storytelling in shaping the future of Philippine cinema.
