Press Release
September 19, 2008

Zubiri commends film industry workers, funds film workers scholarships

"The film industry is instrumental in preserving our cultural heritage, echoing the dreams of the ordinary folk and documenting the pains and joys of our countrymen," said Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri yesterday in a forum of artists and workers acknowledging his help.

"Stars get big bucks and giant production outfits reap millions in ticket sales. For their talent and ability to take risks they deserve it, but let's not forget the men and women working behind the scenes," Zubiri said.

"The love of film-making is what keeps many of them in the industry despite the small pay and months when there are not enough jobs to go around."

Zubiri observed "that since many workers are hired mainly on per project basis lacking job security, I deemed it beneficial for workers if government help defray the cost of education for workers and their dependents."

"Education is the great equalizer with rapid change in technology affecting all industries especially filmmaking. By further studies or training, workers can advance their skills and be at par with their counterparts abroad and be empowered to secure better pay and more stable jobs."

"My humble contribution lies squarely with my belief that our present crop of writers, directors film workers and artists can give birth to another Golden Age of Filipino movies with box-office success and international acclaim."

Among many organizations engaged in uplifting the status of film industry workers, the Nagkakaisang Manggagawa ng Pelikulang Pilipino (NMPP) has been granted by government a P2.5 Million financial assistance for a Scholarship Program promoted by NMPP president Director Joel Lamangan.

The Department of Budget and Management released to the NMPP the financial assistance worth P2.5 Million which was allocated by Senator Zubiri under his Priority Development Assistance Fund.

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