MANILA, Philippines — The late “king” of Philippine movies, Fernando Poe Jr., would have turned 80 years old on Tuesday (Aug. 20) assured that his advocacy to promote the welfare of the Philippine film industry is in good hands with his daughter Sen. Grace Poe.
On the eve of FPJ’s birthday, Poe vowed to continue her father’s work to advance the rights and welfare of workers in the movie industry.
“My father knows that behind every movie are industrious and excellent workers,” said Poe. “He always thinks about their rights and welfare” the senator said in a statement in Filipino.
As part of Poe’s advocacy for the film industry, she has filed bills aimed at further promoting local movies and film tourism.
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Poe and her family will commemorate FPJ’s 80th birthday on Tuesday with Mass and a short program at the Manila North Cemetery.
Poe also expressed gratitude to fans for their continued support of FPJ’s films, keeping his memories alive.
FPJ died on December 14, 2004 after suffering from a stroke./TSB