This project seeks to create the first fully sustainable film studio complex in the heart of the Philippines, specifically in the Municipality of Mabinay, Negros Oriental.
The proposed facility will be powered by renewable energy sources, including solar power electric generators, ensuring zero carbon emissions.
In addition to supporting sustainable film production, the studio will contribute to local economic and social development by creating jobs, encouraging climate action, supporting local businesses, and establishing a recycling centre on-site.
The project has already secured access to some land and two buildings to accommodate workers.
The project enjoys the support of the local government, making the Municipality of Mabinay an ideal location for this environmentally forward-thinking initiative.
The studio will set a new standard for sustainable film production in the region while providing economic opportunities and raising environmental awareness.
The proposed sustainable film studio complex in Mabinay, Negros Oriental, offers several key benefits:
- Environmental Impact:
- Zero Carbon Emissions: By utilizing renewable energy sources such as hydrogen and hydroelectric power, the studio will achieve a carbon-neutral footprint, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
- Sustainable Practices: On-site recycling facilities and the use of all-electric vehicles will reduce waste and reliance on fossil fuels, promoting a circular economy and reducing the project’s overall environmental impact.
- Economic Benefits:
- Job Creation: The construction and operation of the studio will provide employment opportunities, particularly for local youth, both in the film industry and in supporting sectors like logistics, maintenance, and renewable energy.
- Boost to Local Economy: By creating a hub for film production, the project will attract businesses such as catering, hospitality, and transportation, stimulating local commerce and providing opportunities for small businesses to thrive.
- Tourism Growth: A sustainable film studio may attract film productions from across the globe, bringing in talent, visitors, and investment to the region, boosting tourism and related services.
- Social Impact:
- Youth Empowerment: The studio will provide training and employment opportunities for young people in the region, promoting skills development and career pathways in film production, technology, and sustainable practices.
- Community Engagement: Local communities will benefit from infrastructure improvements, increased access to renewable energy, and potential long-term benefits like education on sustainability and climate action.
- Cultural and Creative Contributions:
- Film Industry Growth: By establishing a world-class production facility, the project will contribute to the growth of the Philippine film industry, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional studios and encouraging international collaborations.
- Platform for Local Talent: The studio will provide a platform for local filmmakers, artists, and professionals, allowing them to showcase their work and develop creative industries in the Philippines.
- Partnership with Local Government:
- Government Support: The strong relationship with the local government in Mabinay ensures that the project will benefit from regulatory support, potentially easing bureaucratic hurdles and encouraging additional public and private investment in the region.
- Model for Sustainable Development:
- Global Leadership: The project could serve as a blueprint for future sustainable developments in other sectors, positioning the Philippines as a leader in integrating eco-friendly practices into high-profile industries like film and media.
These benefits make the venture not only an environmentally responsible initiative but also a catalyst for economic growth, social development, and creative industry expansion in the region.
We have two proposed sites for the sustainable film studio complex, both are will be located in Mabinay, a municipality in Negros Oriental, in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines. Mabinay is known for its rural setting, characterized by lush landscapes, rolling hills, and access to natural resources, making it an ideal location for eco-friendly developments.
- Geography: The area benefits from a rich natural environment with rivers, forests, and access to water resources suitable for hydroelectric power generation, which aligns with the project’s renewable energy goals.
- Infrastructure: While rural, the area has access to necessary utilities like electricity and roads connecting it to major nearby cities like Dumaguete City, a growing hub for commerce and education in the Philippines.
- Land Availability: The project has secured access to land, which is crucial for the development of the studio and its surrounding infrastructure, including accommodation for workers and space for renewable energy installations like solar power generators.
Mabinay is approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) from Dumaguete Airport (Sibulan Airport). The travel time typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route generally follows the national highways, making it a straightforward drive through beautiful countryside.
What do we need?
We are looking to raise 900,000 US dollars to build this site.
The Philippines offers several tax incentives for film productions, making it an attractive location for both local and international filmmakers. These incentives are managed primarily through the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and the government’s broader investment promotion agencies.
Key Filming Tax Incentives in the Philippines:
Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP):
- Rebate on Production Costs: The FDCP provides a rebate of up to 20% of the Qualified Philippine Production Expenses for international productions that shoot in the Philippines. This includes expenses related to the use of local labour, equipment, facilities, and logistics services.
- Eligible Expenses: These can include hiring local crew, renting production equipment, using local production studios, transportation, lodging, and post-production services within the country.
Film Location Engagement Desk (FLEX):
- FLEX is a program under the FDCP aimed at simplifying the process of shooting films in the Philippines. It offers logistical and administrative support for local and international productions, helping filmmakers navigate the local legal framework, including permits and customs for importing equipment, which can lead to cost savings and smoother operations.
Special Non-Immigrant Visa for International Filmmakers:
- Filmmakers and their crew can apply for a special visa that allows them to stay in the Philippines for the duration of their production, without undergoing the usual stringent immigration requirements. This visa process is streamlined to avoid delays, which reduces logistical costs.
Income Tax Holidays (ITH) for Production Studios:
- Production companies investing in film studios in the Philippines may qualify for income tax holidays (ITH) under the Board of Investments (BOI) or the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) if they register as a qualified entity. This incentive allows new businesses to be exempt from paying corporate income taxes for a set number of years (typically 4-6 years).
- Eligibility: A film studio focused on sustainable and eco-friendly practices may qualify as a “pioneer enterprise,” which could make the project eligible for longer tax holidays and additional benefits.
Value-Added Tax (VAT) Zero Rating on Exports:
- Services provided by Philippine companies that are directly exported, including film production services provided to foreign studios, may be exempt from the 12% VAT, resulting in considerable cost savings for international producers working in the Philippines.
Customs Duty Exemptions:
- International productions can import equipment for use during filming without paying customs duties, provided the equipment is re-exported after the production wraps. This exemption reduces upfront costs for bringing specialized filmmaking gear into the country.
Local Government Incentives:
- Some regional governments, particularly in tourism-driven areas like Negros Oriental, may offer additional local tax incentives or fee reductions for film productions. This includes discounts or waivers on location fees, permits, and logistical support, further lowering the cost of filming.
Potential Advantages for the Sustainable Film Studio in Mabinay:
- Green Filmmaking Advantage: Since the film studio complex in Mabinay will emphasize sustainability, it might qualify for additional tax breaks or support under environmental and green initiatives, particularly as the country increasingly prioritizes eco-friendly projects.
- Local Partnerships and Grants: Given the potential economic and environmental benefits to the local area, the studio may receive favourable terms from the provincial government, such as tax abatements or grants for infrastructure development, especially if it ties into regional development goals.
International Co-Production Treaties:
The Philippines is part of several international co-production treaties, including agreements with European and Southeast Asian countries. Productions that qualify under these treaties may enjoy additional tax benefits, government support, and access to local incentives from both the Philippines and the partnering country, which can further reduce costs and encourage international collaboration. These tax incentives make the Philippines a competitive location for film production, and the sustainable film studio in Mabinay can leverage these benefits to attract international filmmakers, lower operational costs, and boost local economic activity.
A well-defined marketing strategy is crucial for the success of the sustainable film studio project. The following outlines a comprehensive approach to promote the studio, attract clients, and establish a strong brand presence:
Target Audience Identification
- Local Filmmakers: Independent filmmakers and production companies in the Philippines looking for affordable and eco-friendly filming locations.
- International Filmmakers: Productions seeking unique, tropical landscapes and sustainable practices.
- Corporate Clients: Companies needing filming spaces for commercials, training videos, or promotional materials.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and universities that may require filming facilities for student projects.
Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
- Sustainability Focus: Highlight the studio’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, such as zero carbon emissions, renewable energy sources, and on-site recycling.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Promote advanced technology and infrastructure that meet the needs of modern filmmakers.
- Community Engagement: Emphasize the studio’s role in job creation and community support, which resonates with socially responsible brands and filmmakers.
Brand Development
- Logo and Branding: Create a distinctive logo and visual identity that reflects the studio’s sustainable ethos and professionalism.
- Website: Develop a professional website showcasing studio facilities, services, and sustainability initiatives, with a user-friendly interface for bookings and inquiries.
- Social Media Presence: Establish profiles on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to share behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community involvement.
Content Marketing
- Blogging: Regularly post articles related to film production tips, sustainability in filmmaking, and success stories from local filmmakers who have used the studio.
- Video Marketing: Create promotional videos highlighting the studio’s facilities, sustainability practices, and testimonials from filmmakers to engage potential clients visually.
Networking and Partnerships
- Film Festivals: Attend and sponsor local and international film festivals to network with industry professionals and promote the studio’s offerings.
- Collaborations: Partner with local production companies, educational institutions, and film organizations for workshops, internships, and co-productions.
- Sponsorships: Sponsor events focused on sustainability and film production to enhance brand visibility and credibility.
Promotions and Incentives
- Introductory Offers: Provide discounted rates or packages for first-time clients to encourage them to try the studio.
- Referral Programs: Implement a referral program offering incentives for clients who bring in new business.
- Loyalty Programs: Create a loyalty program for returning clients with exclusive benefits, such as discounts or priority booking.
Public Relations
- Press Releases: Send press releases to local and international media about the studio’s launch, unique features, and significant projects.
- Media Outreach: Build relationships with film industry journalists and bloggers to secure features and interviews that highlight the studio’s sustainability and innovation.
Community Engagement
- Workshops and Training: Host workshops on filmmaking, sustainability, and green practices, inviting local filmmakers and students to participate.
- Open House Events: Organize open house events for the community to visit the studio, learn about its offerings, and network with local filmmakers.
Monitoring and Analytics
- Performance Metrics: Use tools like Google Analytics and social media insights to monitor website traffic, engagement, and conversion rates.
- Feedback Loop: Regularly collect feedback from clients to assess satisfaction and improve marketing strategies.
By leveraging a multi-faceted marketing strategy that highlights the sustainable film studio’s unique features and community involvement, the project can attract diverse clients and build a strong brand presence in the film industry. The focus on sustainability not only aligns with global trends but also appeals to a growing segment of environmentally conscious filmmakers.
Download our Feasibility Study