The Philippine movie industry, once a vibrant force in Asian cinema, is currently facing a multitude of challenges demanding urgent attention. From limited funding and distribution avenues to the overwhelming dominance of foreign films, local filmmakers struggle to compete. The rising cost of production, coupled with limited government support and the pervasive issue of piracy, further cripples the industry’s potential for growth and innovation.

Actors Dingdong Dantes and Charo Santos-Concio shared their sentiments on the status of Philippine film industry in a recent TV guesting for Fast Talk with Boy Abunda to promote their upcoming movie, ‘Only We Know’ which is set for June 11 theater run.

“Napakahirap gumawa ng pelikula [ngayon]. Producers are so discouraged, sometimes disenchanted with how things are. But yun na nga, we just have to keep going, I hope the government will see the entertainment industry as a real industry,” Santos said.

The advent of the digital age when everything is online also contributes to the decline of cinematic experience in the country. On top of this, the exorbitant  fee to movie theaters discourages even the die-hard movie enthusiasts to go out simply watch online for a minimal fee, if not for free.

“With the shift to digital platforms, even the theatrical screens in the malls now are cutting back on the number of theaters. Admission prices have gone up. We’re one of the most heavily taxed industries,” the former Kapamilya lady boss explained.

Dantes agreed to this predicament. However, he sees the advantage of the digital era.

“Suddenly we become global actors and actresses. Yung mga kuwento natin, nakukuwento na natin sa ibang bansa na hindi natin nagagawa dati,” he said.

“I think collaboration is key now. Kaya kami di ba, we present the picture of collaboration. Kailangan manatiling buhay eh because telling stories is part of human experience,” Dantes explained.

It is acknowledged that Philippine cinema’s golden age took place in the 1970s and 80s which has produced a diverse array of genres, reflecting the country’s rich culture, social realities, and political landscape with the movies turning out to be box office hits one after another.

The recent box office success of the movies ‘Rewind’ (2023) and ‘Hello, Love, Again’ (2024) was poised to bring back the movie-going habit but sadly it did not. The creative talent is undoubtedly present but without significant intervention and strategic revitalization, the Philippine movie industry may face the risk of fading into obscurity.

And of course, we do not want this to happen. As Santos said, the entertainment industry is a real industry. Beyond its historical and cultural impact, the film industry should be a major economic engine, capable to generate billions of dollars annually and employing countless individuals in diverse roles, from filmmaking and acting to distribution and marketing.

‘What you see is what you get’ with these couples

What you see is what you get. In show business, what you see is what you get, has become the name of the game, at least in the love department.

Without putting labels on their relationships, many couples become successful and eventually do the altar walk after. However, many aren’t as successful especially among the younger set. Kyline Alcantara and Kobe Paras, for example, used to be lovey-dovey with their seemingly clingy relationship until their nasty breakup which made headlines lately.

So, we just hope that this ex-girlfriend of a provincial politician would eventually end up with her current beau, who is an ex-boyfriend to a more popular actress. They look good and they seem to be of the same wavelength, observers say.

First, they were spied kissing at a bar in the presence of some friends. Today, the couple is visible in many showbiz events and is open about their blossoming relationship.

And then there is this tandem who still has to confirm the real score between them. While the actress has no TV or movie projects for quite a long time, sightings of her are always with this former heartthrob-turned action star whether in a private family dinner or an out-of-the country rendezvous.

Meanwhile, this beauty queen simply said he was just beginning to become close friends but there was nothing romantic with this actor-politician who inspired her to go back to school to earn herself a college diploma. Eventually, the actor has become the favorite guest of the actress’ family dinner every now and then. Do we hear wedding bells soon for this actress and the actor who has been an elusive bachelor all these years?

So now, it is useless for showbiz scribes to ask these partners if they are lovey-dovey. After all, what you see is what you get, would just be the final answer!