Hollywood Firm Eyes PHP2.8B Film Hub in PH

LOS ANGELES – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is boosting efforts to position the Philippines as a premier film production destination, securing a major investment pipeline from Hollywood-based Birns & Sawyer.

On March 5, DTI Secretary Cristina Roque met with executives from Birns & Sawyer Inc., a leading provider of professional film production equipment, to discuss partnerships and an investment plan to expand film production opportunities and train Filipino filmmakers.

“The Philippines has a rich pool of creative talent, and it’s time we fully harness that potential by strengthening our film production capabilities,” Roque said. “With Birns & Sawyer’s Hollywood legacy and presence in the Philippines, we see great opportunities to expand collaboration, create jobs, and grow our creative economy.”

Birns & Sawyer CEO Mari Acevedo outlined an initial investment of PHP850 million to PHP960 million, which includes building a state-of-the-art soundstage in Filinvest’s New Clark City. The company plans to develop two more soundstages in key Philippine cities, bringing the total investment to PHP2.8 billion.

Beyond direct foreign investment, the project is expected to generate significant economic benefits. The company also aims to collaborate with local universities to train fresh graduates to meet world-class industry standards.

Acevedo highlighted ongoing initiatives in the Philippines, including cinematography workshops, co-production grants, and support for the FilAm Creative Film Festival, which promotes emerging Filipino-American filmmakers. The company operates an Asia-Pacific office in Quezon City, providing sales, rentals, and system integration services.

The meeting also explored co-production opportunities between Filipino and Hollywood producers, alongside potential grants and equipment support for local filmmakers. With its expertise in camera and production equipment rentals, Birns & Sawyer is well-positioned to enhance the country’s film infrastructure.

Roque reaffirmed the Marcos administration’s commitment to developing the Philippine creative sector, emphasizing tax incentives, government grants, and training programs under the Bagong Pilipinas campaign. The government prioritizes investments in creative industries for job creation and economic growth.

“The Philippines is home to passionate and talented filmmakers. Strengthening partnerships with industry leaders like Birns & Sawyer will give them the tools and opportunities to compete globally,” Roque said.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for Birns & Sawyer to finalize investment plans, participate in film-related events, and deepen collaborations with Filipino filmmakers. The Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in Los Angeles will facilitate follow-up discussions to advance these opportunities.