The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) has joined forces with the #DocsConnect Taskovski Training Program to launch a “transformative initiative” aimed at strengthening the Filipino documentary film industry. “This strategic partnership represents a significant milestone in advancing the growth and international visibility of Philippine documentaries, focusing on building industry expertise and promoting local stories on the global stage,” write program organisers.
“With a legacy as one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant film industries, shaped by diverse cultural influences and historical shifts, the Philippines has long been a cradle of cinematic talent,” organisers add. “The documentary sector, in particular, is experiencing significant growth, shedding light on societal issues, politics, and culture in deeply impactful ways.
“This collaboration with Taskovski aligns perfectly with our mission to rebuild and strengthen the Filipino film industry post-pandemic, equipping our storytellers and producers with the tools to thrive locally and globally,” comments newly appointed FDCP Chairman and CEO Jose Javier Reyes.
“In this age of information overload as well as alternative truth, never has the documentary filmmaker been most important. It is through the narratives shaped from personal conviction and strengthened by facts and experience can filmmaking achieve greater significance to one’s culture as well as that of the world. The Philippines, rich with diversity and endlessly evolving in its socio-political timeline, needs the documentary filmmaker to find not only his voice but the courage and determination to have his stories told and shared with the rest of the world,” he adds.
The #DocsConnect Taskovski Training Program will kick off with an intensive on-site five-day workshop for 10 selected documentary projects in development, complemented by 15 observer slots. Additionally, participants will benefit from six months of mentorship, ensuring long-term guidance and support.
Selected Projects in Development
- A DREAM FOR KAPE DE KALAMANSIG (Julius Neil Piala)
- A FAITHFUL LOVE (Joshua Lomahan and Kristine Camille Sulit)
- AT THE SHORE LINE (Joseph Ezra Jimenez)
- BAGO PA TAYO MALIMUTAN NG MUNDO (BEFORE THE WORLD FORGETS US) (JT
- Trinidad and EJ Gagui)
- FINDING FELIX: THE FIRST FILIPINO PHOTOGRAPHER WHO NEVER
- PHOTOGRAPHED HIMSELF (Cedrick Rico and Lawrence Arre)
- I EXISTS (Lance Lozano and Maan Deus)
- IMELDA’S MELODIES (Jerome Dulin and Sef Arcegono)
- GREGORIA DE JESUS (Arjanmar Rebeta and Khaye Medina)
- WHEEL OF LIFE (Krizelle Kate Blanza and Joanah Pearl Demonteverde)
- WE, MEN (Kristoffer Brugada and Danzen Santos-Katanyag)
The program encompasses four key elements:
- Industry Expertise – Navigating the entire filmmaking process from development to distribution, with a focus on the role of AI and innovation in the industry.
- Sustainability and Green Practices – Promoting environmentally conscious filmmaking and ethical production practices.
- Well-being in the Film Industry – Addressing mental health and fostering collaborative, non-competitive ecosystems.
- Leadership and Purpose – Teaching value-based decision-making and conscious leadership for local and multicultural collaborations.
“The collaboration addresses the need for industry-specific skills among Filipino filmmakers, particularly in international co-productions. By educating not only directors but also producers, the program aims to cultivate a new generation of Filipino impact producers, distributors, and PR experts, ensuring that local stories resonate with global audiences,” write organisers.
Head Tutor Irena Taskovski is an award-winning producer and distributor who has mentored, consulted and provided expertise in marketing, sales, financing, and impact distribution for numerous film institutions, including Sunny Side of the Docs, HBO Europe, TRT World, Asian Cinema Fund, Dok.incubator, Sources Germany, and Emerging Producers at Ji.hlava IDFF.
“This partnership will empower Filipino filmmakers with the skills and networks they need to thrive in the global market while staying true to their cultural identity and purpose,” she says.
Programme mentors are Austrian documentary filmmaker Hubert Sauper and the Amsterdam-based film editor, DOP, director, and script advisor Alexander Goekjian.
Taskovski adds: “Partnering with the Film Development Council of the Philippines is an honour, as we share the vision of arts and culture as essential pillars of both local identity and global visibility. This second collaboration builds on their earlier support for Filipino filmmakers at our #DocsConnect Lab in Spain. This opportunity is a transformative journey designed to equip filmmakers with the creative, technical, and mindful leadership skills needed to bring their visions to life. By guiding 30 filmmakers in key areas such as development, distribution, impact, and marketing, we aim to foster purposeful storytelling that resonates both locally and globally.”
Taskovski also announced its open call for applications for the #DocsConnect Conscious Filmmaking Lab in Sitges, Spain, in October 2025.
“In today’s rapidly evolving film industry, #DocsConnect labs uniquely combine practical industry knowledge, personal well-being, and conscious leadership training. This ensures filmmakers are not only skilled but also healthy, mindful, and purposeful leaders,” organisers underline.
