Pandemic effect: FDCP gears for pay-per-view online streaming of local films

MANILA, Philippines — The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) on Friday announced it is readying a digital platform where local filmmakers can monetize their content as the entertainment industry shifts to a so-called new normal due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Local films will soon start streaming for a price in a platform called Cine Lokal online, FDCP chairperson Liza Diño said during the online Laging Handa briefing.

“We also plan na mag-shift sa digital platform, ‘yung mga gumagawa ng mga pelikula na wala talagang platform para ilabas ang kanilang content at i-monetize ang kanilang content, magsi-shift tayo sa mga streaming platforms,” Diño said.

(We also plan to shift to a digital platform. Filmmakers who do not have a platform to share and monetize their content may shift to streaming platforms.)

“Pwede nating ma-monetize ang ating mga content so hindi siya libre, para siyang pay-per-view. Magkakaroon tayo ng mga ganoong klaseng platform kung saan ire-relase natin ‘yung mga films natin at ‘yung mga content natin, online, digitally pero babayaran s’ya sa panonood nito,” she explained.

(The content can be monetized, it’s like pay-per-view. We will have this platform where films will be released online but those who want to watch will have to pay.)

It is yet to be announced when the streaming platform will be launched.

Cinemas and theaters remain shuttered in areas under community quarantine to prevent mass gatherings and curb the spread of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes the highly infectious and potentially deadly respiratory ailment COVID-19.

KGA