Why showbiz experts should lead MMFF
The question of who should lead the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has been a topic of debate. Given the festival’s pivotal role in celebrating Filipino cinema, why is it organized by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and not an industry-driven body dedicated to local filmmaking and the welfare of those working within it?
The answer may lie in the festival’s roots, which were discussed by Senator Jinggoy Estrada ahead of the 50th MMFF Gabi ng Parangal.
In a gathering with the showbiz press, Senator Estrada revealed that his father, former President Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada, would attend the event to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition as the “Father of MMFF.”
During the senator’s belated Christmas party for entertainment media, he emphasized his father’s profound impact on the festival’s inception. He expressed his pride in his father’s legacy, noting that the MMFF’s continued celebration of Filipino films still lives up to his father’s vision.
“Actually, it’s all his… not just because he’s my father, but it’s really all his,” Senator Jinggoy said. “Metro Manila Film Festival and Mowelfund (Movie Workers Welfare Foundation), which used to be the sole beneficiary of the festival and the one that organized the festival until leadership changed, then it was given to the Metropolitan Manila Commission, the predecessor of MMDA.”
His sentiments emphasize the importance of leadership from those with a deep understanding of the industry, a perspective that aligns with his own view on MMFF’s management.
Senator Estrada shared that the idea for the MMFF came to fruition in 1974, during the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and First Lady Imelda Marcos. He recounted how his father lobbied for a festival that would focus exclusively on Filipino films during the Christmas season, a period when foreign movies dominated local theaters. This bold move led to the creation of a festival that continues to showcase Filipino talent every year.
“A lot of people opposed the idea, especially those who bring big Hollywood movies to the country,” he recounted.
Looking back at the festival’s history, Senator Estrada expressed that if it were up to him, MMFF would be managed by individuals with a true understanding of cinema and production.
“I would like the Metro Manila Film Festival to be managed by those who truly understand movies and film production,” he said. “But of course, it has to have the President’s approval.”
While he praised MMDA Chairman Romando Artes for his leadership, Senator Estrada’s preference for industry professionals to oversee MMFF underscores the need for expertise in crafting a festival that truly serves the Filipino film industry.
On a lighter note, Senator Estrada admitted he missed it when asked about the possibility of returning to acting. However, he noted his need to prioritize his health, saying he would need to lose weight before considering a comeback.
As for politics, Senator Estrada hinted at his continued involvement. Although he doesn’t need to run in the upcoming elections, he actively supports the BFF party-list, with his wife, Prescy Ejercito, as its first nominee.
