Did you know that the 2000 fantasy horror film “Spirit Warriors” which starred the Streetboys that included Vhong Navarro and Jhong Hilario was Filmed in a Cave in Samar?
This is just one example of the Eastern Visayas region’s potential as a film tourism destination, according to officials in the Department of Tourism (DOT) in Eastern Visayas.
During a recent media forum, Region 8 Director Karina Rosa Tiopes challenged local government units in the region to create policies and infrastructure that attract filmmakers, both local and foreign.
“In terms of locale for a shoot, we have countless to offer, but this potential has to be supported by the right facilities, policies from local government, and perhaps incentives from the government itself,” Tiopes said.
Eastern Visayas boasts marine adventures, rock formations, waterfalls, caves and islands, making it ideal for diverse storytelling.
The DOT said film tourism can provide unexplored locations, generate employment and promote cultural exchange. These benefits, along with income generation, investment and job creation, contribute to local and national economic development.
Aside from Spirit Warriors which was filmed in Sohoton Caves in Basey, Samar, the region has hosted several films, including “Iisa Pa Lamang,” starring Dawn Zulueta and now Leyte Rep. Richard Gomez. The film was shot in Biri Island in Northern Samar in the 1990s.
The 2018 film “Kahit Ayaw mo na,” starring Empress Schuck, Kristel Fulgar and Andrea Brillantes, was shot at Olot River in Paranas, showcasing the Extreme Torpedo boat ride and other natural and historical sites.
“3 Words to Forever,” starring Sharon Cuneta, Richard Gomez and Kathryn Bernardo, was filmed in Ormoc City in 2018.
Other indie films shot in the region include Brilliante Mendoza’s 2014 Super Typhoon Yolanda-themed film “Taklub” (Trap) and “Kun Maupay Man It Panahon” (When the Weather is Fine), which participated in the 2019 Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Project Market. Khvan De La Cruz’s “Howling Wilderness” was filmed in Samar, Leyte, Zambales and Tacloban City.
Following the recent Manila International Film Festival in Hollywood, California, the Philippines, through the DOT, is promoting the country as a global film destination, encouraging filmmakers to choose the Philippines for their projects.
(With report from PIA)
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