Philippines launches Oscars grants for local films

QUEZON CITY, Philippines, June 18 — The Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) on Thursday opened submissions for a new grants program designed to support Filipino films pursuing recognition at the Academy Awards and other major international honors, as it also launched the search for the country’s official entry to the next Oscars race.

The initiative, called Pinoy Oscars Pursuit, offers government-backed financial assistance to Philippine films seeking nominations at the Academy Awards, including in the Best International Feature Film category, as well as documentary, short film and other competitive categories.

The program will also support Filipino films campaigning for international industry awards such as the Golden Globes and the Independent Spirit Awards, the academy said.

Film Academy Director-General Paolo Villaluna described international awards recognition as an investment in the country’s film industry, saying successful campaigns can help attract funding, strengthen industry infrastructure and elevate the profile of Filipino filmmakers and workers.

“When a Filipino film earns a place on the world stage, the whole country gains,” Villaluna said in a statement.

“A nomination or shortlisting draws investment, raises the value of our workers’ labor, and brings the world’s attention to the Philippines as a place to tell stories and to make films.”

Filmmakers seeking consideration as the Philippines’ official submission for Best International Feature Film at the 99th Academy Awards must submit entries by July 31.

The academy said it will announce a domestic shortlist in August before naming the country’s official Oscars entry in early September, coinciding with Philippine Film Industry Month and ahead of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ submission deadline later that month.

Entries will be reviewed by a pre-selection committee based on artistic merit, cultural relevance and their ability to sustain an international awards campaign.

A seven-member National Selection Committee composed of Filipino film practitioners approved by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will choose the country’s official nominee.

The launch follows the academy’s support for the current awards season, including the international campaign of “Magellan,” the Philippines’ official entry for Best International Feature Film, as well as other Filipino contenders in documentary, short film and original song categories.

The academy said detailed guidelines, eligibility requirements, deadlines and incentive schedules are available through the program’s official documentation.

(This report is based on information released by the Film Academy of the Philippines)