Engr. Benjie Austria, an emerging Filipino film producer, has an unwavering passion for cinema and a deep commitment to giving back to his community.

He fondly recalls the day he first experienced the magic of movies, which ignited a lifelong love affair with storytelling through film.

Growing up, he was captivated by the power of films to transport viewers to different worlds and evoke various emotions.

This early fascination inspired him to pursue a career in the film industry, where he strives to create compelling narratives that entertain, uplift, and inspire others.

With each project, he aims to share his blessings and positively impact the lives of those around him.

Austria reflected on how the critically acclaimed film "Himala," which stars Nora Aunor, significantly shaped his desire to become a film producer.

The movie's powerful storytelling and exceptional performances left a lasting impression on him, igniting his passion for filmmaking and encouraging him to pursue a career in the industry.

"I was a typical probinsyano. Kapag may nakikita akong shooting nanonood ako at nanonood talaga ako ng mga pelikula natin," said Austria during an exclusive interview in Manila recently.

He added: "Nangarap talaga ako na one day, makakapag-produce ako ng pelikula. Na-inspire ako noong napanood ko ang 'Himala.' Pangarap lang talaga ang magproduce at ngayon natupad na. Determined talaga ako na maging producer. Ibigay naman ni Lord."

In 2022, Austria produced his first movie, "Broken Blooms," starring Jeric Gonzales. Louie Ignacio directed the award-winning film.

"I was introduced by Raymond "Bigboy" Villariza to Director Louie Ignacio and Dennis Evangelista during the pandemic. So, I prepared the budget for my first project. Pinag-aralan ko talaga. At yung concept ni Direk Louie na 'Broken Blooms' maganda talaga. Tapos nagkaroon ng awards ang 'Broken Blooms,' mas lalo akong na-inspire magproduce," said the producer from Davao.

Austria was emotional the first time he saw his name on the screen. "Overwhelmed ako. Very excited ako noon dahil natupad na ang pangarap ko. Austria was excited about his second project, "Huwag Mo Kong Iwan," starring Tom Rodriguez, Rhian Ramos, and JC de Vera. It is directed by Joel Lamangan.

"Idol ko siya (Lamangan) at talagang pinapanood ko ang mga movies niya. Ang galing niya. Strikto talaga siya sa set. Na-appreciate ko talaga ang mga ginagawa niya. Hindi talaga ako sanay sa pagiging strict niya pero na-explain naman niya sa akin," said Austria.

Then, one project led to another. Lamangan is also the director of Bentria's third project "Fatherland," a heavy drama starring Inigo Pascual.

On working with Austria, movie line producer Dennis Evangelista said: "He's the No. 1 producer I've worked with. Sorry na lang sa iba. Nakita ko sa kanya ang pagiging selfless. Pantay-pantay ang tingin niya sa tao at walang tinitignan kung sino ang mataas or mababa. Sana dumami ang katulad niya."

Austria's visions

Having penetrated the entertainment industry, Austria hopes to produce more projects and help people.

"This is my passion. But for now nag-eenjoy ako lalo na kung maganda ang pelikula," Austria responded when asked if he sees himself staying in the industry for a longer period.

The businessman added: "Thankful ako na nakapag produce ako ng mga movies na walang aberya at smooth lahat. Hands-on talaga ako sa mga project ko. Gusto ko itrato sila ng tama sa mga tao. Ako kahit na konti lang ang pera ko, I will share it. Gusto ko magpasaya ng mga tao. Aanhin mo naman ang money kung greedy ka? Sana tulungan natin ang Philippine movie industry."

Austria announced plans for an advocacy film festival to support local producers and inspire the academic community.

"Gusto ko mag produce ng Advocacy Film Festival kung saan I will invite some producers to join. I will promote it to some investors. Maganda ito para sa academe. Wala tayong Advocacy Film Festival," he said.

In 2025, Austria hopes to establish a talent center to foster local talent development. This initiative is designed to nurture skills and support the growth of individuals in various fields.

"Magtatayo ako ng talent center para mag develop ng mga local talents. Pangarap ko rin yan. Nandito na ako so hopefully next year asikasuhin ko na rin ang pagtayo ng talent center," he said.

On his Christmas wishes, Austria said: "Good health. At sana tangkilikin nila ang Huwag Mo Kong Iwan."

Austria said he plans to celebrate the holidays in the country next month. "Hindi ako mahilig mag abroad. Dito lang ako sa Pilipinas magbabakasyon. Imbes na mag abroad itutulong ko na lang sa iba yung pera."