BUSAN, SOUTH KOREA – The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) successfully concluded its participation at the Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) held from September 20 to 23, 2025 at Exhibition Center 2, BEXCO, Busan, alongside the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) taking place from September 17 to 26.

Over the course of five dynamic days, the Philippine Delegation showcased the creativity and strength of Filipino storytelling through preparations and activities before the market, pitching sessions, project showcases, industry conferences, and global networking events. Filipino producers, directors, and industry leaders actively engaged with international counterparts, building meaningful collaborations and reaffirming the Philippines’ position as a trusted partner in the global film industry.

Strong Filipino Presence Across BIFF and ACFM 

SCREENINGS AT BIFF:

- Magellan by Lav Diaz (Icons Section, PH’s Official Entry to the 98th Academy Awards)

- 10s Across the Borders by Chan Sze-Wei (Wide Angle: Documentary Competition, World Premiere)

FILM PROJECTS IN ACTION AT ACFM:

Asian Project Market (APM):

- Heaven Help Us! By Eve Baswel 

Asian Cinema Fund (ACF):

- Oma by Armin Septiexan (ACF)

Docsquare:

- Magnetic Letters by Demie Dangla

- Touch the Colour by Baby Ruth Villarama 

- We, Men by Kristoffer Brugada 

Platform Busan:

- The Nurse, Ang Magtutuli by Alaine Ansong

- Bakas ng Usok Nating Naiwan Jacob Collado

CHANEL x BIFF Asian Film Academy:

- Bridget Rabo Ng-Ting

FILIPINO PRESENCE ACROSS THE MARKET:

- 5 Filipino filmmakers (Producers Hub)

- 11 production companies (PH Pavilion)

- 43 individuals (Platform Busan)

- 1 Filipino Fellow (BAFA)

Through the Philippine Booth networking sessions, the delegation fostered stronger ties with global partners, paving the way for future collaborations in film restoration and co-production. Complementing these efforts, FDCP Chairman & CEO Jose Javier Reyes took part in the AFCNet x BFC x AFCI Joint Panel Discussion, highlighting the Philippines’ vision for film education, professionalization, and globalization for film.

A proud highlight of ACFM 2025 was the success of the Filipino project “Heaven Help Us!” by director Eve Baswel and producers John Torres, Jules Katanyag, and Danzen Santos-Katanyag, which earned two major recognitions, namely the Sørfond Award and the Kongchak Studio Award at the APM Awards Ceremony. 

With BIFF and ACFM 2025 as a platform, the FDCP reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Filipino creatives, fostering international partnerships, and cementing the Philippines’ role as a dynamic player on the global stage. These victories underscore the growing potential of Philippine cinema and its capacity to resonate with audiences worldwide.

For more information on the FDCP and its international programs, follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, or access our website through the following link: fdcp.ph