Film Development Council of the Philippines. Image: Facebook/Film Development Council of the Philippines
The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has launched the Academic Film Society (AFS) and Student Film Assistance program in hopes of developing the talent of emerging filmmakers which helps promote the local film industry.
The programs were presented at a launch event at the Cinematheque Centre Manila last Saturday, March 18, where FDCP chairman and CEO Tirso Cruz III stressed the need for “emerging voices” that would contribute to the growth of Philippine cinema.
“We must always start at the foundation, sabi nga nila, the roots, which is education. The industry needs more of these emerging voices that would tell stories from fresh eyes, the perspective of a new generation, whether they’re emerging or aspiring filmmakers. These new talents can be the new leaders of the film industry,” Cruz said.
According to FDCP, those who come from accredited institutions offering film, communication, visual arts, or related fields, Senior High Schools with arts-related programs, and student film organizations are welcome to apply as a member of the program.
Student Film Assistance Program
The government agency also noted that 25 slots are available for student filmmakers enrolled in AFS-registered schools per semester, where they can receive a cash grant worth P30,000 and P50,000, which would produce their thesis films and other related projects, through the Student Film Assistance Program.
The financial assistance program is only open to students pursuing academic film projects, including fiction, documentary, experimental, or animation, and it must be ready for principal photography within six months upon application, according to a release.
The deadline for the first stretch of applications will be on April 16, however, the dates for the upcoming semesters are yet to be announced, as of this writing. The FDCP also noted that the accepted applicants are required to attend a Masterclass in Film Production. EDV