Poe proposes cash incentive for prize-winning indie films

Senator Grace Poe (inset) has filed a bill in the Senate which seeks to grant a cash incentive to any Filipino indie film that would win the best picture prize in an international competition. Poe cited the victory of the Brillante Mendoza film ‘Ma Rosa’ that took home the top prize as well as the Best Actress Award for its main star Jaclyn Jose. INQUIRER FILES

Senator Grace Poe wants to reward independent Filipino films that gain global acclaim, filing a bill that would give as much as a P5-million incentive for prize-winning silverscreen art.
Poe’s Senate Bill No. 165, or the Philippine Independent Film Incentives Act, aims to provide monetary reward for locally produced movies that win the Best Film prize in international film festivals.
“We have a great pool of artists and creators who have brought honor to our country through the outstanding films they have produced. It is high time to recognize them and encourage the rest of our indie filmmakers to make their mark, as we help the industry flourish,” said Poe, who grew up in the industry having been raised by the late action star Fernando Poe Jr. and actress Susan Roces.
Poe’s proposed measure will give a P5-million reward to a feature film (90 to 120 minutes long) that receives international recognition, and P3-million to a prize-winning short (20 minutes or less).
“The independent film industry has my unwavering support. Our filmmakers and actors have added greatly to the wealth of our culture and heritage. It is only proper for the government to acknowledge their efforts,” Poe said.
Recent years have seen an increasing number of Filipino independent films fetéd in international film fests, among them Brillante Mendoza’s Ma’ Rosa, which was well applauded at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year. The film’s lead actress, veteran Jaclyn Jose, took home the Best Actress Award from the French festival for her performance.