Hollywood firm plans to build studios in the Philippines

Los Angeles-based company Birns & Sawyer, Inc. is eyeing USD50 million (PHP2.87 billion) investments in the Philippines over the coming years, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said in a report by Philippine News Agency.

DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque had a meeting with Birns & Sawyer chief executive officer Mari Acevedo in California last March 5, wherein the latter aims to bring its film production services in the Philippines to propel the local creative industry.

Birns & Sawyer initially plans to pour in USD15 million to USD17 million for a soundstage inside the Filinvest Innovation Park in New Clark City in Central Luzon before adding two more soundstages in other parts of the country in the coming years.

The company is already operating its Asia Pacific in Quezon City for sales, rentals, and system integration services.

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

The DTI chief also conveyed to the American firm the Marcos administration’s commitment to develop the country’s creative industry by providing tax incentives for film production, government grants, and training programs.

“The Philippines is home to some of the most passionate and talented filmmakers in the world. By fostering stronger partnerships with industry leaders like Birns & Sawyer, we can provide them with the tools and opportunities they need to compete on a global scale,” she added.

Roque was also with First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos last March 8 in California for the Manila International Film Festival, wherein the First Lady invited foreign filmmakers to film in the Philippines.