Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

NINETEENTH CONGRESS
Third Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 11284

Introduced by: Hon. Margarita “Atty. Migs” B. Nograles and Hon. Cheeno Miguel D. Almario

EXPLANATORY NOTE

The film industry is a powerful driver of economic growth and cultural promotion around
the world. Countries like Canada and New Zealand have successfully drawn filmmakers by
offering incentives, leading to job creation and increased tourism. The Philippines, with its
stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has the potential to be a top film destination, but it
needs the right support to attract both local and international filmmakers.

This measure, the Philippine Film Production Rebate Act, aims to provide financial rebates
for filmmakers who choose to shoot in the country. By offering up to 30% of eligible production
costs, including expenses like labor, equipment rentals, and location fees, the program hopes to
boost the local film industry. This would create jobs for Filipinos, especially in creative roles, and
support local businesses that service film productions.

Beyond financial incentives, this bill will promote the Philippines to a global audience,
boosting tourism and showcasing our culture. By simplifying the process of obtaining permits and
for international filmmakers, the country can position itself as an accessible and welcoming place
for film projects. In turn, this will provide lasting benefits for the local economy and the creative
sector.

Hence, approval of this bill is earnestly sought.

MARGAI

mn NOGRALES.
PBA Part-list Representative



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Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

NINETEENTH CONGRESS
Third Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. ~ 11284

Introduced by: Hon. Margarita “Atty. Migs” B. Nograles and Hon. Cheeno Miguel D. Almario

AN ACT
ESTABLISHING A FILM PRODUCTION REBATE PROGRAM FOR BOTH LOCAL
AND INTERNATIONAL FILMMAKERS WHO CHOOSE TO SHOOT IN THE
PHILIPPINES AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Short Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Pelikulang Bida ang Pinas Act
(Philippine Film Production Rebate)."

SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is hereby declared the policy of the State to promote the
Philippines as a prime location for film production, both local and international, by providing
incentives that support the film industry’s growth. Recognizing the potential of the film industry
to promote the country's culture, tourism, and economy, the State seeks to establish a rebate system
that encourages filmmakers to use the Philippines as their production hub.

SEC. 3. Definition of Terms. - For purposes of this Act, the following terms are defined as follows:

(a) Film Production — refers to the creation of motion pictures, television programs, web series,
documentaries, and other audiovisual works.

(b) Qualified Film Production Expenditures — expenses directly incurred in the Philippines during
the pre-production, production, and post-production stages of a film, including but not limited to
labor costs, location fees, equipment rental, and other related services.

(©) Rebate — refers to a partial refund or return of funds to a film production company based on
their eligible expenditures made within the country.


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(d) Local Film Production — refers to films produced by Filipino production companies or
filmmakers.

(c) International Film Production ~ refers to films produced by foreign production companies or
filmmakers outside the Philippines.

SEC. 4, Film Production Rebate Program. - A rebate system is hereby established for both local
and international filmmakers who choose to shoot their films in the Philippines, subject to the
conditions provided herein:

(a) Rebate Eligibility — A film production company may be eligible for a rebate on their qualified
film production expenditures incurred in the Philippines, provided that:

1. The film production must meet a minimum spending requirement, as determined by the Film
Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), to qualify for the rebate.

2. The film production must contribute to the promotion of the Philippines as a cultural and
tourist destination.

3. The film production must employ a minimum number of Filipino citizens as part of its crew
and staff, as set by the FDCP.

4. The film production must comply with all relevant local laws, including obtaining the
necessary permits, visas, and clearance from local government units (LGUs).

(b) Rebate Amount — A rebate of up to 30% of qualified film production expenditures shall be
granted to eligible film production companies, subject to the verification and approval of the
FDCP.

SEC. 5. Incentives for International Film Productions. - International filmmakers who choose to
shoot in the Philippines shall be eligible for additional incentives, such as:

(a) Fast-Tracked Permits — Streamlined processes for obtaining filming permits and necessary
clearances from government agencies and local government units.

(b) Additional Rebate for Long-Term Production — An additional 5% rebate may be awarded for
film productions that span more than six (6) months or that demonstrate significant investment in
local infrastructure, talent, and services.

SEC. 6. Creation of the Philippine Film Production Rebate Fund. - A special fund known as the
Philippine Film Production Rebate Fund shall be created and maintained by the FDCP. The fund
shall be used to provide rebates under this program and shall be sourced from the annual General



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Appropriations Act (GAA) and other revenues that may be allocated for this purpose, including
tourism and cultural development programs.

SEC. 7. Implementing Rules and Regulations. -Within ninety (90) days from the approval of this
‘Act, the FDCP, in coordination with the Department of Tourism, the Department of Trade and
Industry, and other relevant government agencies, shall formulate the necessary rules and
regulations to effectively implement the provisions of this Act.

SEC. 8. Monitoring and Reporting. - The FDCP shall conduct an annual review of the
effectiveness of the film production rebate program and submit a report to Congress on the impact
of the program on the film industry, tourism, and the economy.

SEC. 9. Appropriations. - The amount necessary for the implementation of this Act shall be
included in the annual budget of the FDCP under the GAA.

SEC. 10. Separability clause. - If, for any reason, any part or provision of this Act is declared
invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining parts or provisions not affected shall remain in full force
and effect.

SEC. 11. Repealing clause. - All other laws, presidential decrees, executive orders, rules and
regulations contrary to or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are repealed or modified
accordingly.

SEC. 12. Effectivity clause. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved.