MANILA – The revamped Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), now under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) supervision, has committed to intensifying its advocacy for film workers’ rights while expanding Philippine cinema’s global footprint, as outlined in its renewed mandates and programs launched in late 2025. Director-General Paolo Villaluna, appointed to lead the academy, emphasized professionalization, welfare support, and international recognition as core pillars to revitalize the industry amid challenges like freelance vulnerabilities and post-pandemic recovery.
The FAP’s initiatives include:
- Worker Rights and Professionalization: Establishing industry work standards, guild accreditation, a code of ethics handbook, worker ID cards, grievance mechanisms, and welfare services.
- Training and Upskilling: Partnerships with TESDA, DepEd, FDCP, and academe for certifications and capacity-building.
- Global Promotion: Strengthening Oscar submissions (Pinoy Oscar Pursuit), Luna Awards incentives for international winners, and collaborations for worldwide exposure.
Villaluna stated: “Our job is to ensure creators have protection, recognition, and support for long careers—while positioning Philippine films on the global stage.” This aligns with Executive Order No. 70 (2024), transferring FAP oversight to DTI and mandating collaboration for worker welfare under the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act.
The vow comes as FAP rolls out programs like the Film Worker Development, Training and Protection Program (FWDTPP)—offering legal aid via Sine-Sandigan and workshops—and the Film Awards and Recognition (FAR) initiative for Oscars and other major festivals.
For an industry often marked by precarious freelance work and limited protections, FAP’s push signals institutional backing: From local guilds to global screens, elevating workers’ rights while amplifying Filipino stories worldwide.
FAP Core Mandates Snapshot:
| Mandate | Key Programs/Initiatives |
|---|---|
| Worker Rights/Professionalization | Guild support, ethics code, IDs, grievances |
| Training & Welfare | Upskilling certifications, legal services |
| Global Recognition | Oscar selection, Luna Awards, international incentives |