MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Acclaimed filmmaker and educator Direk Jose Javier Reyes has been reappointed as Chairman and CEO of the Film Development Council of the Philippines, following the successful completion of his partial term in office.

The reappointment was formalized at the Court of Appeals, where Chairman Reyes took his oath before the Honorable Selma Palacio-Alaras, with FDCP Officer-in-Charge and Head of the Education Division Ms. Rica Arevalo serving as witness. 

Reyes, who first assumed the role in April 2024 following the resignation of former Chairman Tirso “Pip” Cruz III, brings with him decades of industry experience and a deep commitment to nurturing Philippine cinema across all stages of development, from production, to film education, preservation, and global positioning. 

Having utilized his industry know-how and hands-on experience, Chairman Reyes focused on advancing key ongoing initiatives, including  the construction of the Agency’s new office, and strengthening the FDCP’s commitment to equipping filmmakers and audiovisual workers with the skills and means to become world-class.

A DATA-DRIVEN FUTURE FOR PH CINEMA 

Having observed a noticeable decline in the performance of the local film industry during the pandemic, the FDCP under Chairman Reyes collaborated with the research arm of De La Salle University to conduct an in-depth study on the Habits and Preferences of Filipino moviegoers.

Released in June 2025, the study, and subsequent research, offers timely, actionable insights designed to guide industry stakeholders, inspire investment, and inform the development of a long-term, evidence-based roadmap for Philippine cinema over the next decade.

RAISING THE BAR FOR FILM EDUCATION

Recognizing that the future of cinema begins in the classroom, the FDCP remains steadfast in its commitment to film education and professional development. In 2024, the FDCP successfully launched the inaugural Film Education Convention (FilmEc) at De La Salle College of St. Benilde. 

Bringing together students and educators from across the country, FilmEc served as a hub for filmmakers with much to teach and even more to learn. Following the event’s success, plans are underway to expand FilmEc into a recurring, nationwide platform for innovation in film learning, geared toward building a globally competitive and critically informed creative workforce.

SUPPORTING LOCAL TALENT

In addition to recurring financial grants and assistance programs such as the Student Film Assistance Program and International Co-Production Fund, the FDCP opened new pathways for these specialized areas of filmmaking.

In honor of the country’s National Artists for Film, a new grant was launched to support tribute projects and research focused on their life and works, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire future generations. Support was also expanded for documentaries, short films and locally-produced animation with more initiatives in development to help emerging talents thrive.

2024 also marked the first Metro Manila Film Festival Student Short Film competition in partnership with the FDCP, allowing many amateur filmmakers to live their silver screen dreams and showcase them to the most captive audience you could find.

STRENGTHENING PRODUCTION THROUGH INCENTIVES

To further encourage film production both locally and internationally, the FDCP is working to enhance its incentive programs and cultivate an enabling business environment. These efforts aim to make the Philippines a competitive and accessible production hub, offering a rich pool of creative talent, skilled crews, and a variety of stunning locations.

PRESERVING THE PAST

The Philippine Film Archive remains committed to its mission preserving and restoring Filipino film heritage.Thanks to both local and international collaborators, two landmark films returned to the big screen in higher audiovisual fidelity: Lino Brocka’s Jaguar from 1979, and 1984’s ‘Merika starring the late Nora Aunor.

‘Nothing short of timely and necessary’

“Mr. Paolo Villaluna is overjoyed with Direk Joey Reyes’ re-appointment... his vision for the audio-visual industry is nothing short of timely and necessary, if not revolutionary— and his re-appointment is a clear indication of the government’s trust and confidence in his ability to steer developmental initiatives for the sector.” a statement from the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) reads.

The governing bodies of Philippine cinema continue to collaborate in serving their mandate, “The Film Academy of the Philippines looks forward to collaborating and working hand-in-hand with FDCP as the government agencies mandated to help the country’s Audio-Visual Industries. Mabuhay ang Pelikulang Pilipino!”

Film worker non-profit Mowelfund shared in the elation at Chairman Reyes’ reappointment, with Chairman of the Board Boots Anson-Roa describing Direk as having his “mettle as an administrator and manager put to the test.” The institution believes that, and his dedication to the industry remains “an asset to the FDCP.

THREE MORE YEARS

With Chairman Reyes officially back at the helm, the FDCP is ready to move full steam ahead, expanding current programs, deepening international partnerships, and pursuing new opportunities to uplift underrepresented film genres and mediums, enhance film education, and bolster industry development across the board. 

Partnerships and representation internationally shall continue, with emphasis on presenting the Philippines as a premiere and accessible production hub with a surplus of local talent as well as picturesque and varied locales.

And the past shall continue to be revered, with the ongoing restoration of Sister Stella L (1984) set to see the light of day very soon.

Preparations are already underway for Philippine Film Industry Month this September, where the spotlight will shine on the women who have shaped and continue to shape Philippine cinema.

“I am very happy with the trust that has been given to me. I know that the time is limited and the problems seem to be insurmountable, but that is the challenge, and I love challenges, and I am so lucky to have a team that is equally motivated to face them.” Chairman Reyes stated.

Poised to oversee the next three years of development and transformation, the FDCP under Direk Joey is ready to keep pushing Philippine cinema forward, one challenge at a time.