MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) recently hosted the Film Industry Conference (FIC) 2025 at Lanson Place in Pasay City. The one-day event brought together filmmakers, industry experts, and enthusiasts for in-depth discussions and collaborative sessions designed to shape the evolving landscape of Philippine cinema.
To ensure broader participation, the conference was made accessible both onsite and online, allowing more members of the film community to engage in the vital conversations driving the growth of the national film industry.
FIC 2025 featured three hybrid sessions tackling key challenges faced by the local film sector.
Session 1, titled “Own Your Story: Navigating the Copyright Legal Rights and Remedies of Filipino Screenwriters and Directors,” focused on intellectual property rights for creative professionals. Legal experts Atty. Nick Pichay and Atty. Janice Tejano provided valuable insights into securing creative rights and pursuing remedies against infringement. The discussion was moderated by Wanggo Gallaga following the speakers’ presentations.
The second session, “Independent, Not Invisible: An Indie Filmmaker’s Guide to Selling Films with Impact,” explored strategies for independent filmmakers to elevate their work and achieve success in an increasingly competitive market. The panel featured noted filmmakers Baby Ruth Villarama, Chuck Gutierrez, and Alex Poblete, with MJ Marfori moderating the discussion.
Rounding off the event was “The Right Price: The Economy of Cinema and Its Impact on Habits of the Filipino Audience.” The session examined how cinema economics—particularly ticket pricing—shapes audience behavior and access to local films. Speakers Atty. Joji Alonso, John Joshua Barbo, and Mon Garilao provided their analyses, with Pat-P Daza moderating the exchange.
Through the Film Industry Conference, the FDCP aims to connect experts, creators, and stakeholders in sharing insights on the latest trends, opportunities, and collaborations available to Filipino producers and filmmakers. The goal: to support the development, production, and distribution of local films that can compete and resonate beyond Philippine borders.
As the country’s national film council, the FDCP remains dedicated to crafting and implementing policies and programs that foster the economic, cultural, and educational advancement of the Philippine film industry.
