18 October 2022, Seoul and Busan, Korea – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) slogan – “Philippine films for the world” was at the center of the Philippine participation at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), one of the most prestigious in the world during its 27th edition held from 5 to 14 October 2022.
The Philippine Delegation was headed by FDCP Chair Tirso S Cruz III and the FDCP team including Technical Consultant and renowned film and television Director Jose Javier Reyes and Executive Director David D. Fabros. A number of active Filipino producers and other creatives likewise took part in the nearly two-week festival which resumed full in person activities this year.
The Philippines also took part in the Asia Contents and Film Market (ACFM) and other collaborative events during the festival. Chairman Cruz met with ACFM Head Mr. Oh Seok Geun who previously served as the President of the Korean Film Council.
Two new works by acclaimed Filipino auteurs Lav Diaz (When the Waves are Gone) and Brillante Mendoza (Feast) were screened to full audiences at BIFF’s ‘Icon” program while three other Philippine co-productions “Autobiography”, “Arnold is a Model Student”, and “Plan 75” were also showcased in the “window on Asian Cinema” segment.
Philippine Ambassador Theresa Dizon-De Vega was on hand to welcome the Philippine Delegation and supported the country’s participation in the festival and the ACFM. Ambassador Dizon-De Vega noted that “This is a new age for Asian Cinema and the Philippines, through the FDCP and our vibrant creative community, is an engaged and active player through increased collaboration and exchanges.”
Another notable achievement at the BIFF was the award given to GMA 7 news and public affairs program “Atom Araullo Stories” which won Best Documentary for its episode “Young Arms” at the 4th Asia Contents Awards held at the BIFF.
The Philippine participation at the 27th BIFF was capped by the holding of the “Philippine Cinema Night” a traditional activity hosted by the Philippines at major film festivals to thank the festival organizers and to build more networks for the promotion of the Philippine creative industry. Representatives from the Philippine Embassy and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) were on hand to lend support to the event. END
