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| (Image Source: Metropolitan Manila Development Authority) |
In conjunction with the grand celebration of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair was held exclusively for workers in the local cinema industry at the PhilSports Arena (Ultra) in Pasig City last October 13-14, 2024. This initiative spearheaded by the leadership of the MMFF and its principal stakeholders — the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MOWELFUND), the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), and AKTOR — aligned with the festival's commitment to bolster the flourishing Philippine cinema industry by directly supporting its backbone: the cinema workers.
The fair is established on the foundation of delivering Mabilis, Maayos, Maginhawa, at Masayang serbisyo publiko featuring 23 participating agencies that has provided over 100 programs aimed at enhancing the welfare and growth of industry members. This pioneering initiative is anchored in the Bagong Pilipinas vision promoted by Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., marking a significant step towards recognizing and advocating for the cultural and economic contributions of the creative arts industry to the nation. Organized under the visionary leadership of House Speaker Atty. Martin G. Romualdez and in strategic partnership with the MMFF leadership and stakeholders, the Serbisyo Fair was crafted to bridge government services and benefits more closely to those who contribute tirelessly behind the scenes of the film industry. Spearheading this momentous event were Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman and MMFF Overall Concurrent Chairman Atty. Romando Artes, MOWELFUND Chairman Boots Anson Roa and President and CEO Rez Cortez and FDCP Chairman Jose Javier Reyes with Executive Director III Daniel David Morales guiding the charge.
At the event's opening ceremony, Atty. Artes stated, "The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair is a pivotal step in ensuring that our cinema workers are recognized, celebrated, and above all, supported. Through the collective efforts of the MMFF, MOWELFUND, FDCP, FAP, and AKTOR, we bring forth an era where the government's helping hand is more accessible to the people who form the backbone of our country's cinematic ventures." Atty. Artes also expressed gratitude to President Marcos, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos and House Speaker Romualdez for their unwavering support to local cinema workers, adding, "The fair provided a platform where film industry workers can access essential government services and assistance catered to their needs in just one location." For the MMFF's 50th edition this year, several activities have been lined up all for the welfare of the movie workers and promoting the film, television, and radio industry in the Philippines such as the Golden Gala, the MMFF Master Class, the Student Caravan, and the Celebrity Golf Challenge among others.
Over two days, thousands of cinema workers availed themselves of various government services and benefits, which were specifically tailored to address their unique needs and concerns. The fair not only served as a platform for assistance but also strengthened the sense of community within the industry by providing novelties such as workshops, health consultations, and entertainment segments. Anson Roa emphasized the fair's role in uplifting the lives of cinema workers, remarking, "This is more than just an event; it's a testament to our continuous commitment to enhancing the welfare of every individual who contributes to the magic of Philippine cinema." The Bagong Pilinas Serbisyo Fair sets a benchmark for future initiatives aiming to support local cinema workers. Through collaboration and unified support, the MMFF and its stakeholders demonstrate an unwavering dedication to the prosperity and well-being of the film industry's unsung heroes, laying down a solid foundation for their recognition and security.
