The Department of Tourism (DOT) has extended an invitation to Hollywood executives to film in the Philippines, highlighting the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant local talent as major incentives for filmmakers.

DOT Secretary Christina Frasco made the pitch during a press conference at the Sunset Marquis Hotel in Los Angeles, California, according to the DOT in a news release on Sunday.

Frasco emphasized the Philippines’ natural beauty and the benefits of choosing the country as a filming location, and cited the country’s 7,600 islands, pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and urban cityscapes as reasons why the Philippines is an ideal filming destination.

She also pointed out that the Filipinos’ strong English proficiency and skilled workforce add to the country’s appeal to foreign filmmakers.

“The beauty of filming in the Philippines is not just on the strength of its places, but most importantly, its people,” Frasco said.

“The Philippines is an English proficient country with a wealth of creative talent that can be hired for a local production film crew, as well as a robust ecosystem of filmmakers that are now invigorated because of the efforts of our First Lady to bring everyone together to rally for filming in the Philippines,” she added.

Frasco detailed the incentives available to filmmakers, including recent legislation signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., such as the CREATE MORE (Corporate Recovery and Tax Incentives for Enterprises – Maximize Opportunities for Reinvigorating the Economy) Act, which offers additional perks for filming in the country.

She also emphasized the competitive advantage the Philippines offers in terms of cost-effectiveness, citing the relatively lower cost of goods and labor, as well as the country’s rich cultural offerings.

“In addition to this, we also have the competitive advantage of a relatively lower cost of filming, from the cost of goods, cost of labor, and the like. And all of this is wrapped and enjoyed because of the diversity of offerings that the country has in terms of its culture, its heritage, its history, even its gastronomy,” Frasco said.

The press conference was held on the sidelines of the Manila International Film Festival and part of the “Expanding The Bridge Initiative,” which seeks to reintroduce the Philippine film and entertainment industries to Hollywood executives. (PNA)