The Metro Manila Council (MMC) recently announced a significant step towards supporting the local film industry. In a resolution passed on Friday, the MMC declared a three-year suspension of amusement taxes for the screening of local films in Metro Manila.
MMDA acting chairman and Metro Manila Film Festival Overall Concurrent Chairman, Don Artes, confirmed that the resolution would be adopted by every local government unit in Metro Manila. This collective effort aims to provide much-needed relief to the struggling film industry.
Under the resolution, local government units will make amendments to their respective local revenue codes, waiving the amusement tax for Filipino movies exhibited in Metro Manila from January 8 to December 24 of every year for the next three years. This move is expected to encourage more Filipinos to support and watch local films, revitalizing the industry.
The decision to suspend amusement taxes comes as a response to the challenges faced by the Philippine film industry. During an MMC meeting on Wednesday, Jose Javier Reyes, the representative of the Film Development Council of the Philippines, shed light on the dire state of the industry. The recent pandemic, the rise of streaming platforms, piracy, and heavy taxation have all contributed to its decline.
Reyes highlighted the burden faced by film producers, who are required to pay three types of taxes for each film. Among these taxes is a 10 percent amusement tax, which, when combined with other taxes such as value-added tax and income tax, makes the Philippine film industry one of the most heavily taxed in the world. This excessive taxation has hindered the growth and profitability of local films, making it challenging for filmmakers to thrive.
By suspending amusement taxes for local films, the MMC aims to alleviate the financial strain on producers and create a more conducive environment for the industry’s recovery. The move is expected to attract more audiences to cinemas and promote the consumption of Filipino-made movies.
The MMC’s resolution is a significant step towards revitalizing the local film industry. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting and promoting Filipino talent, creativity, and cultural expression. By providing financial relief and reducing the tax burden, the MMC hopes to encourage the production of high-quality local films that can compete both domestically and internationally.
The suspension of amusement taxes for local films is a proactive measure that acknowledges the importance of the film industry as an economic and cultural driver. It recognizes the potential of Filipino filmmakers to create compelling stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. By fostering an environment that supports and nurtures local talent, the MMC hopes to pave the way for a vibrant and thriving film industry in Metro Manila.
In conclusion, the Metro Manila Council’s resolution to suspend amusement taxes for local films is a significant development that aims to revive the struggling film industry. By alleviating the tax burden on producers and encouraging audience support, the MMC hopes to create a more favorable environment for the growth and success of Filipino-made movies. This move showcases the government’s commitment to promoting local talent and cultural expression, ultimately contributing to the economic and cultural development of Metro Manila.
Source: The Manila Times
