Senator Bong Revilla met with the entertainment press over the weekend to discuss his recent milestones, including the challenges facing the local film industry—a cause he has long been passionate about.
With local films struggling at the box office, Revilla emphasized that strong storytelling is essential to drawing audiences back to theaters.
“The government is doing what it can,” Revilla said in the vernacular, citing the passage of the Eddie Garcia Law, which aims to protect workers in the entertainment industry. However, he noted that some producers have raised concerns that the law has had unintended negative effects.
“The law seemed necessary because industry workers, both in television and film, were being overworked—sometimes for 24 hours straight. But now, we need to revisit it and have another dialogue with producers and actors,” he said.
Revilla pointed out that some senior actors are no longer being hired, while opportunities for younger actors are also dwindling due to strict working hour limitations.
“If young actors are only allowed to shoot for four hours, how can we develop new stars? There won’t be another Niño Muhlach if this continues,” he said.
He emphasized the need to carefully study how the government can further assist the local film industry.
“There are so many of us in the Senate now. If we can’t do something about this, I don’t know what else to say. But don’t worry—that’s exactly why we’re here, to help revive the industry,” the 58-year-old actor and public servant said.
Revilla acknowledged that the movie industry is struggling globally, with most content now being consumed on platforms like Netflix. However, he remains hopeful, recalling how Philippine cinema has gone through cycles in the past.
“There was a time when action films faded, and bold films took over. But action movies eventually made a comeback, followed by drama. Maybe we’re just in that phase, and things will return to normal,” he said.
Revilla also stressed the unique experience of watching movies in theaters, saying, “It’s different from watching at home. The problem is, ticket prices are too high. That’s why I’m saying it now—we will push for a law to lower movie ticket prices.”
“The industry must adapt and explore ways to stay viable, such as providing incentives for producers, especially smaller companies that face difficulties getting their films screened,” he added.
Discussions are also ongoing about expanding the jurisdiction of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) to include online and streaming content. He stressed the need for fairness.
“It’s not right that online and streaming platforms can show anything, even if they don’t adhere to the country’s values and culture,” he explained.
When asked if the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) should be run solely by the entertainment industry, Revilla said he is open to the idea.
“It is an option so the industry can take full control. In fact, I see no issue with the industry creating its own film festival. But if that happens, no government funds can be used,” he explained.
Revilla was also asked if he had any upcoming projects after the elections. While public service remains his priority, he said he would consider finishing his stalled film and pushing for a fourth season of Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis if time permits.
“Let’s cross the bridge when we get there,” he said.