Acclaimed filmmaker and educator Jose Javier Reyes has been reappointed as chairman and CEO of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), following the completion of his partial term in office.
Reyes, who first took over the role in April 2024 after the resignation of Tirso “Pip” Cruz III, took his oath before Court of Appeals Justice Selma Palacio-Alaras. FDCP Education Division head Rica Arevalo served as witness during the ceremony.
Reyes brings decades of experience in filmmaking and arts education to the post. During his previous term, he prioritized programs aimed at industry development, including the construction of a new FDCP office and upskilling audiovisual workers through education and grants.
The FDCP also initiated research with De La Salle University on the habits and preferences of Filipino moviegoers, with the findings published in June. The data is expected to guide stakeholders in crafting long-term plans for the local film sector.
Reyes also oversaw the launch of the Film Education Convention (FilmEc) in 2024, which gathered students and educators from across the country. The FDCP said it is preparing to expand the program into a recurring nationwide platform for film education.
Under his leadership, new grants were introduced to support projects highlighting National Artists for Film, as well as local productions in animation, short films, and documentaries. The agency also partnered with the Metro Manila Film Festival to host a student short film competition for the first time.
To further stimulate production, the FDCP is updating its incentive programs to attract both local and foreign shoots. Efforts also continue in film restoration, with classic titles like Jaguar (1979) and ‘Merika (1984) recently screened in restored formats. Restoration work on Sister Stella L (1984) is currently underway.
Film bodies, including the Film Academy of the Philippines and Mowelfund, welcomed Reyes’ reappointment. The FAP described his leadership as “timely and necessary,” while Mowelfund noted that his experience and dedication remain an asset to the agency.
Reyes said the FDCP would continue to expand its programs and strengthen partnerships to advance Philippine cinema. This includes ongoing preparations for Philippine Film Industry Month in September, which will focus on women’s contributions to the sector.
Reyes will serve a full three-year term.
