PROBINSYANA’ – Imee Marcos says she’s been a “probinsyana” for too long (Ilocos Norte governor). Which she loves. But then it was about time she reconnected with her friends from the city. After all, she’s also a “Manileña.”
Showbiz friends remember Imee best as the producer of two film classics, “Himala” and “Oro Plata Mata,” and two iconic TV shows, “Kaluskos Musmos” and “Kulit Bulilit.”
Why not produce “pa more”? Imee says she has a better and more contemporary idea, “new creative industry.” Which is being done in South Korea.
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URGENT – Imee wants to rationalize and expands what she calls “ outdated, conflicting and inadequate legislation” governing the Philippine entertainment industry.
She adds there’s urgent need to restructure the guidelines, parameters, and philosophy embracing the country’s creative profession into one overreaching framework as part of nationbuilding.
Well, Imee have the chance to introduce such a bill…should she make to the Senate May next year.
A “new creative industry will streamline such agencies as the Film Development Council of the Philippines and Movie & Television Review & Classification Board. It’ll also encompass not only radio-TV, but also games and toy development, social media , and digital communications.
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INCENTIVES – She notes that athletes and students who shine abroad are given cash incentives and other rewards. “But it seems we ignore filmmakers, song writers, furniture designers.” Of course, they should be given incentives.
While at it, Imee believes that a review of the burdensome tax rates being levied against movie producers is also necessary. “Filmmaking equipment, game consoles, and other requisites are heavily taxed to be affordable by professionals and producers.”
Imee also says the role of local government units has to be recognized in monitoring and enhancing art and entertainment in the countryside. She cites Isabela’s Banchetto Film Festival, Ilocos Norte’s Media Incentive Ordinance, and Baguio’s Creative City as examples.
“The digital world continues to be unlegislated. Clearly, it is a work in progress but it is a job that we need to embark on quickly and effectively. At the end of the day, the Filipino may not be the world’s athletes, or be the grossly-disadvantaged scientist, but we can’t be contested as the world’s artist. It is time that we addressed this unique, God-given talent,” she says. (Ronald Constantino)
