Press Release - Bong Go rallies support for MMFF and local film industry; promotes welfare of media and entertainment workers

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, on Wednesday, December 27, emphasized the significance of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) and the need to support the local film industry. He also expressed his gratitude for the resilience shown by Filipinos during the festive season.

As a member of the executive committee of MMFF since 2019, Go encouraged Filipinos to support local films, art and culture, particularly during the MMFF. He highlighted the festival's role in showcasing the skills, talent, and creativity of Filipino filmmakers.

"Ang MMFF ay hindi lamang isang tradisyon tuwing panahong ito, kundi isang mahalagang bahagi ng ating industriya ng pelikula na nagbibigay daan sa pagpapakita ng husay, talento, at malikhaing galing ng mga Pilipino," he stated.

Go acknowledged the challenges faced by the film industry due to the pandemic. He emphasized the importance of supporting local films, stating that every ticket purchased is an investment in the future of Filipino art and cultur through films.

"Ang pandemya ay nagdulot ng malaking hamon sa ating industriya. Ngunit sa ating pagtangkilik, maipapakita natin ang ating kakayahan na muling bumangon at lumago," he remarked.

This year's MMFF includes "Family of Two," "Kampon," "Penduko," "Rewind," "When I Met You in Tokyo," "Becky and Badette," "Broken Hearts Trip," "Firefly," "Gomburza," and "Mallari."

Meanwhile, in the Senate, Go is a member of the Senate Committee on Public Information and is pushing for the passage of Senate Bill No. 1183 or the "Media and Entertainment Workers Welfare Act" which he filed earlier. This proposal aims to provide enhanced protection, security, and incentives for media workers in the country, across all platforms.

The bill includes provisions for additional health insurance coverage, overtime and night differential pay, hazard pay, and other benefits to safeguard the rights and welfare of media workers.

He also mentioned his support for the "Eddie Garcia bill" which he co-authored and was tackled in the plenary recently before session ended this year. The bill aims to provide further support and protection to movie and television industry workers.

"Kamakailan naman ay ini-sponsor sa