More than fifty years in showbiz, actor and politician Bong Revilla feels right at home with the entertainment press. So, when he joined a candid Q&A with the entertainment press on laws, and issues in the showbiz industry last March 1 at Victorino’s in Quezon City, there were no holds barred.
Grateful for the continued support of his campaign, Sen. Bong shared that it’s an overwhelming feeling to be approached by thankful parents, elderly citizens, students and teachers — some of the biggest beneficiaries of the laws he has authored and supported, such as the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act (RA 11997), Expanded Centenarians Act (RA 11982), Free College Entrance Examination Act (RA 12006), No Permit, No Exam Policy Prohibition Act (RA 11984), and the Permanent Validity of the Certificates of Live Birth, Death, and Marriage Act (RA 11909).
The senator was also asked about his plans for the entertainment industry, especially as the box office for local films has been struggling. Industry leaders are alarmed, and unfortunately, the actor-producer-turned-lawmaker said this issue is part of a larger global phenomenon. “Kailangan talaga maganda ang pelikula para humatak ng manonood at hindi aantayin na lang sa streaming o online,” he said.
He emphasized that the industry must adjust, exploring ways to keep films viable, including offering incentives to producers, particularly smaller companies facing challenges in securing theater screenings.
The press also raised concerns about the Eddie Garcia Law, which seems to be causing challenges for producers. Sen. Bong acknowledged that the industry is still adjusting, but he believes it will ultimately benefit the entire sector. “Naniniwala ako na it is for the industry as a whole at hindi lang sa mga manggagawa,” he explained.
He also shared how, during Season 3 of “Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis,” co-produced by Imus Production, he demonstrated that compliance with industry regulations is achievable without sacrificing project quality.
The discussion also delved into proposals to expand the MTRCB’s authority to cover online and streaming content. Bong’s stance? Laws should be fair!
“Hindi kasi tama na ‘yung mga online at streaming ay kung ano-ano na lang ang pwedeng ipalabas kahit hindi ito tumatalima sa kagandahang-asal, values at kultura ng bansa,” he stressed.
When asked if the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) should be managed by industry professionals, the senator was open to the idea. “Pwede namang i-privatize na ‘yang MMFF para ang industriya na ang magdaos nito. In fact, sa tingin ko, wala namang hadlang na gumawa ng film festival ang industriya. Pero pag ganyan, no government funds can be used for the purpose,” he explained.
He mentioned that he’s studying whether the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) could be encouraged to establish its own film festival as an alternative.
Sen. Bong was also asked if he plans to take on a new project after the election. He replied that his priority is public service, but if the opportunity arises, he would like to finish his unfinished film and promote Season 4 of “Walang Matigas na Pulis sa Matinik na Misis.” “Let’s cross the bridge when we get there,” Revilla said.
When asked about seeking higher office, he quickly shut down the idea. “No. Sa kanila na lang ‘yun,” he said, firmly denying any ambitions for a higher position.
