Filmmakers lauded the government of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for helping the film industry during the holding of the Konsyerto sa Palasyo: ‘Para sa Pelikulang Pilipino’ on Sunday.
The concert recognized the invaluable contribution of the film industry to the nation’s arts and culture.
Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Chairperson and CEO Jose Javier Reyes said the film industry greatly appreciates the efforts of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos in spearheading the fifth installment of Konsyerto sa Palasyo.
“It proved, once and for all, that this is one administration that does not just really give lip service. It’s not merely a set of promises, it’s not merely reaching out to the Philippine film industry when there is something needed from the people of the industry,” Reyes said, referring to the Konsyerto sa Palasyo.
“Here, we see a deliberate and concentrated, and concerted effort of the administration to really help the film industry, which is in dire need of the support of the government,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of the FDCP, Reyes also expressed his gratitude to the First Couple.
“Ang na-appreciate namin ay, hindi lang kayo nangangakong tumulong — tumutulong po kayo, at ang bagay na ‘yan ay nakakapanibago at hindi niyo alam kung papaano niyo na bo-boost ang morale ng mga kasamahan namin sa industriya,” he said.
Actress Lorna Tolentino echoed Reyes’ sentiments, saying government support such as the concert is significant for the film industry, especially at a time when the Philippine film scene is experiencing a resurgence.
She hoped the program would continue.
“Mahalaga para industriya ng pelikula na mabuhay ulit kasi nga matagal nang walang masyadong tumatangkilik sa pelikulang Pilipino. Sana ito ‘yung start ulit lalong-lalo na sa Metro Manila Film Fest. I think dun nagsimula muli ‘yung pagiging masigasig ulit ng mga manonood ng mga pelikula,” Tolentino said.
For her part, actress Gladys Reyes underscored the government assistance is a tremendous boost to their industry.
Reyes said the concert demonstrated the strong commitment of the Marcos administration to the film industry.
“Napakalaking bagay po na alam naming may suporta mula sa gobyerno, lalo na po sa ating Pangulo. Sana po talaga tuloy-tuloy na ito … doble po ‘yung kaligayahan na malaman namin na mayroong ganitong event sa Palasyo sa pangunguna nga po ng ating Pangulo,” Reyes said.
“Kaya, maraming-maraming salamat po,” she added.
Actor Enrique Gil thanked the Marcos administration for hosting the concert.
The ‘Konsyerto sa Palasyo: ‘Para sa Pelikulang Pilipino’ coincides with the 50th edition of this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), showcasing 10 films running from December 25, 2024 to January 7, 2025. | PND
