Raise standard of Philippine films and TV shows, local creatives urged
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Thursday urged local creatives / artists to raise the standard of Philippine films and television, stressing the importance of their role in defining Philippine culture.
During the oath taking ceremony of the Katipunan ng mga Artistang Pilipino sa Pelikula at Telebisyon (KAPPT), Marcos told the creatives that it was important for the government to support the arts.
“I hope that, as you secure the well-being of your colleagues, you will continue to strive to raise the standards of our films and our shows at the same time. It is also my wish that you make use and maximize the advantages brought about by new tools, new technologies, [and] new platforms to showcase Filipino excellence and artistry on the world stage,” said Marcos in his speech.
The President also acknowledged how the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected the creative industry including makers of Philippine films.
“Hindi ko lang pinag-uusapan ang mga nakikita sa television, ‘yung mga artista, ‘yung mga sikat na direktor, kung hindi ‘yung mga workers, ‘yung mga caterer, ‘yung mga driver. Talagang lahat sila natamaan. Kaya’t napakalaking bagay para sa amin na suportahan nang mabuti,” said Marcos.
(I am not just talking about those seen on television, the actors and the famous directors, but the workers, the caterers, the drivers. All of them were affected. That is why it is a big deal for us to support them.)
He added that the government values directors who have won awards in film festivals.
