Philippines
Location: Southeast Asia
Broadcasters
ABS-CBN is a major commercial television network in the Philippines.
GMA Worldwide, Inc. (GWI) is the content acquisition and distribution subsidiary of GMA Network Inc., the leading media broadcasting company in the Philippines.
Visas & Permits
Visas & Work Permits
Most passport holders can enter the Philippines visa-free for stays of less than 30 days.
Journalists and camera crews must first apply for a media visa at their local Philippine embassy, which takes around two weeks to process.
Producers, directors, agencies and clients can enter on tourist visas, with business as the purpose of travel, as long as they aren’t bringing in equipment and staying less than 30 days.
Please contact a local embassy, consulate or representative for more information. Alternatively, there are specialist companies that provide visa and immigration support to the media industry who may be able to assist.
Film Location Permits
Manila doesn’t issue citywide permits.
Each location requires a permit from the municipality. Typically, it takes about three days to process. More complicated shoots that require road closures, shooting in national parks or aerial filming require at least seven days for permits.
Some areas on the island of Mindanao need clearance from the government, before a foreign team can shoot there.
Customs
For productions looking to bring in film equipment, the Philippines is not an ATA carnet country.
The Philippines has a good stock of locally available camera, grip and lighting equipment.
When to Film
When to Film
The cool, dry winter months are from November to February. The summer months from March to May are the hottest. The summer rainy season starts in June and extends through November, with strong typhoons possible.
Underwater photography is possible year-round, with the best months for visibility being from December to April.
The Philippines is a predominately Christian country, so those holidays are observed. The region of Mindanao also has a large Muslim community.
Public Holidays
Public holidays may affect timing, availability and costs. See here for public holiday dates in the Philippines.
Costs & VAT
The Philippines is one of the most cost competitive production service centres in South East Asia. Local costs are relatively low and the exchange rate offers great value for money.
The standard VAT rate in the Philippines at the time of writing is set at 12%.
Funding & Tax Incentives
Funding
Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP)
Incentives
Entertainment Partners' Production Incentives Map: Information for Philippines.
Treaty Documents