Director and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) President Joey Reyes’ blunt assessment of the current state of Philippine cinema has sparked debate online, particularly his remark that Filipino audiences’ attitude toward local films is part of the problem.

Speaking during a special event at the Cinemalaya film festival, Reyes said it is a misconception to claim that Philippine cinema is thriving.

“Unang-una, it's a fallacy na buhay na buhay ang pelikulang Pilipino, buhay na buhay ang Cinemalaya. Ang pelikulang Pilipino ay naghihikahos,” Reyes said.

He pointed to the strong box-office performance of Hollywood releases as an indication of the challenge facing local films.

Reyes cited “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “The Odyssey,” which he said earned almost P800 million and P500 million, respectively.

“At bakit naghihikahos ang pelikulang Pilipino? Dahil almost 800 million ang kinita ng ‘Spider-Man’ at almost 500 million ang kinita ng ‘The Odyssey,’” he said.

For Reyes, ticket prices alone do not explain why Filipino films continue to struggle at the box office.

“Ito ang sa aking pakiwari lang, hindi ang presyo ng ticket ang problema. Ang problema ay ang attitude ng mga Pilipino sa pelikulang Pilipino,” he said.

The remark quickly drew mixed reactions online.

Some agreed with Reyes that Filipino audiences have developed a stronger preference for foreign films, while others pushed back, saying the issue is less about attitude and more about the quality and appeal of local productions.

Critics also pointed to the industry's reliance on familiar love stories, love teams and casting choices they feel do not always connect with audiences.

The debate raises a bigger question for the local film industry: Are Filipino audiences turning away from Filipino movies, or are filmmakers failing to give them enough reasons to come back to cinemas?

What do you think?