The initiative, called “Expanding the Bridge,” was launched on March 6, 2025 in Los Angeles, California at a high-profile event attended by top Hollywood executives, directors, and producers, the DTI said in a statement.
Leading the charge, Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos introduced a set of game-changing incentives designed to position the Philippines as a premier destination for international productions.
Cash rebates and co-production grants
The Expanding the Bridge Initiative offers two major financial incentives to foreign filmmakers:
Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP): A cash rebate of up to 25 percent for qualified film and television projects shot in the Philippines
International Co-Production Fund (ICOF): Grants of up to P10 million ($180,000) for international co-productions, supporting collaborations between Filipino and foreign filmmakers
Speaking at the event, Roque emphasized that the country is not just offering locations but building strategic partnerships with Hollywood.
“We are not merely offering a location; we are offering a partnership. The Philippines is open for business, and we’re bringing substantial resources to the table. We are here to build a new era of cinematic collaboration,” Roque said.
Hollywood executives eye Filipino stories
The event drew industry heavyweights with strong connections to the Filipino and Asian film industries. Among the attendees were Mark Dacascos, Tia Carrere, and Oscar-winning producer Lawrence Bender, along with Crazy Rich Asians author Kevin Kwan and filmmaker Marie Jamora. Producers Roger Goff and Mark Lagrimas, who are developing a historical epic set in the Philippines, also participated in discussions about future collaborations.
The Philippines’ renewed push for global filmmaking comes at a time when Filipino films are gaining international recognition. Sunshine, a Berlinale 2025 winner, and the box-office smash Hello, Love, Again, which grossed P1.6 billion, highlight the rising global appetite for Filipino stories.
Rich storytelling heritage
“These successes prove that Filipino storytelling is dynamic, universal, and ready for the world stage. Hollywood, we invite you to collaborate with us,” Roque added.
The Philippine delegation extended an open invitation to Hollywood filmmakers to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, top-tier production crews, and rich storytelling heritage.
“The Philippines is not just ready for Hollywood—we are eager to create cinematic magic together. The future of global storytelling starts now,” Roque concluded. — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
