In a significant step, the national government is finally supporting the campaign to submit the Philippines' film for consideration at the prestigious Oscars.

This exciting development was revealed by the newly appointed Director General of the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), Paolo Villaluna, during a press conference held in Quezon City.

Paolo's words sparked a renewed sense of hope and enthusiasm for the nation’s cinematic achievements, marking a new chapter in the country’s artistic journey.

Supporting the country's Oscar campaign means the national government will allocate a budget to promote the local film in Hollywood.

Paolo mentioned that in the past, there was a ₱1 million budget for the Oscar campaign, which was insufficient for proper promotion in the US. While the Philippines produces quality films, insiders believe that an Oscar campaign could lead to a larger budget for movie screenings, advertisements in trade publications, and dinner events.

The film director noted that other governments have spent millions of dollars or billions of pesos on the campaign, which he acknowledged the Philippine government could not afford.

"We can't support that much. I cannot divulge the amount, but it's substantial. It's not wow, but enough for a decent campaign," Paolo said.

The Philippine entry for Best International Feature at the 2026 Oscars is "Magellan," starring Mexican actor and filmmaker Gael García Bernal and directed by acclaimed Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz.

Unfortunately, "Magellan" did not make the Top 15 in the Oscar category. However, some U.S. critics have included the Filipino film in their predictions for possible nominees. All the nominees for the 98th Academy Awards, including this category, will be revealed on Jan. 22, 2026.

The Philippines has submitted an entry to the Oscars beginning in 1953, but has never been nominated in any category.

Although we may have been overlooked at the Oscars again this year, there is some good news for the local movie industry. In the coming years, our country's entry will no longer need to worry about securing a budget.

Back then, the producers and stars of the Philippine entry to the Oscars were still working on ways to raise funds for the campaign. Now the government is fully supporting the local entertainment industry.

“We have many beautiful, internationally-acclaimed films made by Filipinos that the Oscars have overlooked, and by offering substantial government support to deserving filmmakers, we can enhance their means to do intensive campaigning to reach more Academy voters, which is a necessity for getting the elusive Oscar nod," said Paolo.

The revitalized FAP has been supported by various groups, including the Film Development Council of the Philippines, Aktor (The League of Filipino Actors), and National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee.

Strengthened by Executive Order No. 70 s. in 2024, the revamped FAP announced its role as the country’s agency for film-worker professionalization, training, awards, and worker protection.

“The Academy is tasked to professionalize the Philippines’ film and audio-visual industry workforce, recognize excellence, and provide sustained support through education, training, and industry assistance,” said Paolo. “It is an institution for workers, guilds, and independent practitioners.

“Many of us on the team have worked in the industry and are part of the community,” he said. “Our job is to make sure that the people who create Philippine cinema, who make the industry work, have the protection, recognition, and support they need to build viable, long working lives in this field.”

Do we genuinely need the Oscars? The answer is a resounding yes! The Oscar trophy stands as a powerful emblem of artistic excellence and achievement in cinema.

Securing recognition from the esteemed Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) would not only elevate our filmmakers but also solidify the Philippines' reputation as a burgeoning hub of exceptional storytelling and creativity in the film industry.

(Robert R. Requintina is the editor of Manila Bulletin’s Entertainment section)