MANILA, PHILIPPINES — The Department of Tourism (DOT) continues to push for the Philippines to become a premier destination for film production by encouraging international movie producers and filmmakers to tell stories of the country to the world.
The Philippines have frequently been used as a prominent setting for Hollywood and other American film productions, from Francis Ford Coppola’s epic about the Vietnam War “Apocalypse Now” to “Almost Paradise,” the first American TV series to be shot entirely in the nation (with a focus on Cebu).
As part of its efforts, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco recently met with film executives and creative industry stakeholders in Los Angeles, California, to promote film tourism in the Philippines. The meeting was part of the DOT’s Listening Tours, which aims to gather insights and collaborate with stakeholders to develop film tourism in the country.
“We are determined to push for the country and for the Filipino story to be told, and also to pitch for the Philippines as a viable destination to tell stories from around the world,” Frasco said about her meetings with representatives of HBO Max, Disney Branded Productions, Relativity Media, A+E Studios, Cinema Sala, Janelle So Productions, Inspire Studios, and Electric Entertainment, among others.
During the meeting, Frasco emphasized the government’s push for promoting the Philippines through film and urged international movie producers and filmmakers to consider the country as their next film location. She also discussed the advantages of filming in the Philippines, such as the diverse and stunning natural landscapes, the vibrant culture and heritage, and the competitive incentives offered by the government.
“The Philippines has so much to offer in terms of film locations, and we are confident that our country will provide an ideal backdrop for any kind of movie or TV production,” she said.
The Philippines has already served as a filming location for a number of international productions, including “The Bourne Legacy” (2012), which featured the lagoon of El Nido in Palawan and the streets of Metro Manila; Joseph Zito’s “Missing in Action” (1984); and Oliver Stone’s “Platoon” (1986) and “Born on the 4th of July” (1989) — the last three, Vietnam War action dramas shot in the Philippines.
With the continued support of the government and stakeholders, the Philippines is poised to become a top destination for film tourism, providing a boost to the local economy and further cementing the country’s reputation as a global cultural hub. – WhatALife!/Jayve
Also read: Department of Tourism supports simplification of travel procedures
Leave a Reply