Wazzup Pilipinas!
In a powerful convergence of film and labor rights advocacy, the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) and the Department of Labor and Employment’s Bureau of Working Conditions (DOLE-BWC) staged an event that could very well reshape the landscape of the Philippine entertainment industry.
On March 9, 2025, the Dencar Theater at MOWELFUND, Quezon City, became the epicenter of change as industry pioneers, filmmakers, and labor advocates gathered for "REEL CHANGE: Empowering Filipino Filmmakers through Learning and Innovation." This groundbreaking initiative was not just a mere seminar—it was a bold step toward instilling behavioral change and reinforcing workplace safety in the entertainment industry.
A Call for Safe, Inclusive, and Dignified Workspaces
Opening the event with a firm stance on workplace rights, DOLE-BWC Director Atty. Alvin B. Curada underscored the urgent need to protect the dignity of every worker in the industry, regardless of position or gender. His call to action echoed the broader vision of the 2025 National Women’s Month celebration—one that prioritizes empowerment, inclusivity, and the eradication of harassment in all forms.
At the heart of this advocacy was Dr. Marco Antonio Valeros, DOLE-BWC Medical Officer IV, who delved into two crucial laws:
Republic Act No. 7877 (Anti-Sexual Harassment Act)
Republic Act No. 11313 (Safe Spaces Act, or the “Bawal Bastos” Law)
Through his talk, "GBSH Safe Spaces Act: Promoting Safe Workspaces," Dr. Valeros emphasized how these legal safeguards should not just exist on paper but must be ingrained into the daily operations of every production set.
"Workplace harassment is not just an individual problem—it’s a systemic issue. Employers and workers alike share the responsibility of creating a culture where safety and respect are non-negotiable," he stressed.
A key point of discussion was the empowerment of Committees on Decorum and Investigation (CODI) to proactively address harassment cases. This, combined with industry-wide awareness campaigns, aims to establish a zero-tolerance policy against gender-based violence and harassment in film and television.
A Star-Studded Commitment to Change
The event brought together some of the most influential figures in Philippine cinema, each lending their voice to the movement for a safer and more professional industry.
FAP Director General Paolo Villaluna led the participants, which included:
Manny Morfe – Veteran production designer and former FAP OIC
Mark Meily – President, Director’s Guild of the Philippines, Inc.
Raymond Red, Pam Miras, Jules Katanyag, Dustin Celestino, Ma-an Asuncion-Dagñalan, Michael Angelo Dagñalan, Paul Sta. Ana, Seymour Sanchez, Max Celada, Celeste Lapida – Filmmakers
Janel Gutierrez, Kristine Kintana – Producers
Hero Bautista – President, Katipunan ng mga Artista ng Pelikulang Pilipino at Telebisyon
Evangeline Torcino – Founder and President, Philippine Talent Guilds
The participation of these key industry figures signaled a united front in advocating for systemic improvements in labor rights, workplace safety, and industry ethics.
Cinema as a Mirror: Learning Through Film
One of the event’s highlights was the screening of the award-winning short film, "Cross My Heart and Hope to Die." Directed by Sam Manacsa and produced by Chad Cabigon, the film served as a mirror reflecting the grim realities of workplace struggles.
A talkback session following the screening provided a platform for open discussions on personal experiences, challenges, and the urgent need for cultural shifts within the industry. Attendees were given the space to reflect, exchange insights, and strategize actionable solutions moving forward.
Navigating Intimacy and Professionalism on Set
A particularly compelling segment of the program was led by Dr. Missy Maramara, an intimacy director and coordinator. With many productions still navigating the complexities of filming sensitive scenes, her workshop, "Bawas Tao sa Set," became an eye-opening experience for attendees.
Through a combination of in-depth discussions and hands-on exercises, Dr. Maramara demonstrated:
Proper set protocols for intimate or challenging scenes
The role of consent and communication in production
How to create a safe and respectful working environment
Her guidance provided a roadmap for ensuring both safety and professionalism, reinforcing the message that ethical filmmaking must never be compromised for the sake of art.
Scaling Up: The Road Ahead
With actress and filmmaker Sheenly Gener as the event’s host, the REEL CHANGE initiative concluded on an optimistic note, with FAP and DOLE-BWC announcing plans to expand the program.
The goal? To make these discussions a permanent fixture in the industry, with more comprehensive training sessions, workshops, and policy-driven collaborations in the near future.
As the Philippine entertainment industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: change is no longer just an idea—it is an active movement. The industry’s biggest names have spoken, and the time for safe, inclusive, and ethical filmmaking is now.
A Future Built on Integrity and Innovation
With REEL CHANGE igniting the spark, the challenge now lies in sustaining the momentum. The battle against workplace harassment, unsafe conditions, and industry exploitation is far from over, but this event proved that collective action is the key to transforming the entertainment landscape.
Filmmakers, actors, and industry leaders have set the stage for a future where passion for cinema is matched by an unwavering commitment to dignity and respect. And in this new era, every frame captured must be a testament to the industry's dedication to ethical filmmaking.
The spotlight is now on everyone to keep the reel change rolling.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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