Bicol Saro Partylist Representative Brian Raymund Yamsuan is now pushing for a measure that seeks to grant cash incentives of up to P1 million to film makers, literary writers and other performers in the creative sector who will win major awards in international competitions.
In filing House Bill (HB) No. 1934, Yamsuan wants to pursue the giving of up to P1 million cash grant to artists of the creative sector who have garnered the highest award in film festivals, exhibitions and other notable and prestigious contests.
HB 1934 also provides a P500,000 cash incentive for artists who were given special recognition in similar international competitions.
“The grant of these incentives not only shows our gratitude for the fame and honor that they have brought to our country, but also aims to motivate them and other artistic creators to continue honing their craft,” said Yamsuan, who co-authored the measure.
The lawmaker also expressed hope that exhibitions promoting Filipino films could serve as venues for thought-provoking artistic creations worthy of being presented as competition entries in international award-giving bodies.
Yamsuan cited this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) as an example.
“Our creative industry is brimming with talent. But during these difficult times, it faces many challenges that discourage creators to produce works that truly reflect their artistic vision,” he said.
“Recognizing the international acclaim they have received through incentives could help reinvigorate the creative industry and promote its growth,” Yamsuan added.
He also said passage of the measure into law will complement the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act enacted two years ago.
This law aims to accelerate the development of the creative industry and make it globally competitive by providing it institutionalized support from the government.
Under the bill, if there is more than one winner of a particular award, the cash grant shall be equally divided among them.