Tax breaks, rebates and more! Jinggoy Estrada’s plan to woo int’l moviemakers to PH 

(POLITIKO) Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has filed a bill aiming to turn the Philippines into a top filming destination.

“The power of film and TV shows to turn ordinary locations into iconic tourist attractions is undeniable,” said the senator.

Estrada explained this is the reason he filed Senate Bill No. 2857, the proposed Film Philippines Act.

The proposed measure seeks to create a Film Philippines Office (FPO) that will lead the promotion and marketing of the country as a viable destination for the production of international films and television programs based on a strategic and comprehensive plan.

“It’s high time that we compete with the rest of the world as many countries are already offering attractive incentives in the form of tax relief and rebates, putting up modern infrastructure such as state-of-the-art studios and fully-equipped post-production facilities and overall film-friendly environment to investors,” he said.

Under the bill, foreign film productions will receive cash rebates, multiple visa entries, and tax breaks when using the Philippines as their shooting location.

The FPO will establish a one-stop shop to expedite action on incentives and applications for licenses, clearance, permits, and other requirements for local and foreign film and TV productions.