Filming in Philippines: A Complete Guide to Incentives, Permits & Production Support

Film Production Rebates in Philippines: A Smart Choice for International Productions

The Philippines has become a popular destination for international film productions due to its scenic landscapes, cultural diversity, and financial incentives. The Philippines offers the Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP), providing a 20% cash rebate (up to 25% with a cultural bonus) for eligible film productions that spend a minimum amount on Philippine production, with a cap of PHP 30 million (approximately $540,000). Among the most attractive features for filmmakers is the country’s film rebate program, which offers cash rebates on qualified production expenditures. This program is designed to make the country a premier location for a wide variety of audiovisual projects, including feature films, documentaries, television content, and web-based media.

Eligible Projects for the Philippine Rebate

The Philippines rebate program covers a broad range of audiovisual projects, catering to different genres and formats. It includes feature films (lasting 70 minutes or more), short films (less than 40 minutes), television content (including animation, documentaries, reality shows, and series), as well as web-based content, including individual units and series. This diverse range of eligible projects ensures that filmmakers across genres, from dramas to reality TV, have access to significant financial support for their production.

Additionally, the program extends its eligibility to virtual reality (VR) projects, which is increasingly important as the demand for immersive digital content grows. This flexibility allows productions in various fields to benefit from the rebate program, enhancing the appeal of the country as a versatile filming location.

Minimum Expenditure Requirements

To qualify for the rebate, projects must meet specific minimum expenditure thresholds. For feature films and animated films, the required spending is PHP 20 million (approximately USD 360,000). For documentaries, the threshold is PHP 8 million (about USD 144,000). Short films and individual episodes of a series must have a minimum expenditure of PHP 3 million (approximately USD 50,000). A series, however, must have at least eight episodes to be eligible for the rebate.

These spending thresholds ensure that the rebate program targets larger-scale productions while still offering support to smaller-scale projects, such as short films and individual episodes. It creates opportunities for both independent filmmakers and bigger productions to take advantage of financial incentives.

To qualify, projects must meet the following minimum spending thresholds:

• PHP 20 million (approximately USD 360,000) for feature and animated films
• PHP 8 million (approximately USD 144,000) for documentaries
• PHP 3 million (approximately USD 50,000) for short films
• PHP 3 million (approximately USD 50,000) per episode for series, with a minimum of eight episodes

Production Requirements

In order to benefit from the rebate, projects must be wholly or partly produced within the country. This can include various aspects of production, such as studio or location shooting, animation work, and post-production activities, including visual effects, editing, and sound design. The ability to conduct multiple stages of production within the country ensures that filmmakers can fully utilize the rebate program, further contributing to the country’s appeal as a comprehensive production hub.

Projects must be wholly or partly produced in the Philippines and can include:

• Studio or Location Shooting
• Animation Work
• Post-production Activities (such as visual effects, editing, sound design, etc.)

Project Timeline

Once a project is selected for the rebate program, it must adhere to a specific timeline. Principal photography, animation, or post-production activities must begin within six months of the project’s selection. The final verification process, where production expenses are verified and the rebate is processed, must be completed within two years from the date of signing the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), or three years for animation projects.

This timeline ensures that projects are progressing steadily and that the incentive program is supporting active, ongoing productions. The clear structure also helps filmmakers to plan their projects efficiently and stay within the guidelines of the rebate program.

Selected projects must adhere to the following schedule:

• Production Start: Principal photography, animation, or post-production should commence within six months of project selection.
• Final Verification: Productions must complete and submit final verification within two years (or three years for animation projects) from the date of selection and signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).

Application Process

To apply for the rebate, filmmakers must submit documentation to the Film Development Council, which includes a detailed project plan and a comprehensive budget. The approval process generally takes several weeks, during which time the authorities assess the application to ensure it meets all the necessary criteria for the rebate.

This application process is designed to be straightforward, with the Film Development Council offering guidance to filmmakers. The approval system helps streamline the process for international productions, ensuring minimal delays.

Atlas Film Fixers is here to help you navigate the rebate process, secure permits, and ensure your project meets all requirements. Contact us to learn how we can support your next production in the Philippines.

Country overview for filming in this region

Bordering Countries:

Manila, Davao City, Quezon City, Caloocan, Cebu City, Las Piñas, Antipolo, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos

Main Cities:

• Manila (National Capital)
• Quezon City (Largest city in Metro Manila)
• Cebu City (Queen City of the South)
• Davao City ( Largest city in Mindanao)
• Caloocan City (Part of Metro Manila)

Local Languages

Filipino & English

Local Currency:

Philippine peso

Climate:

The Philippines experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

• Rainy Season (June to November): Characterized by frequent rainfall and high humidity, this period is ideal for indoor activities and exploring the country’s lush landscapes.
• Dry Season (December to May): Marked by dry and sunny weather, this season is perfect for outdoor adventures, beach trips, and exploring the Philippines’ stunning islands.

Visa Requirements

Pre-Travel Registration

Register your travel via the official government portal: https://consular.dfa.gov.ph/services/visa/visa-general-info

Visa Application Requirements

Check if your country is eligible for a visa on arrival. Ensure you have the necessary documents for a smooth application process

Processing Time

Allow at least 3 weeks for Tourist Visa processing

Visa Fees

Fees vary depending on your country of origin

International Crew Accreditation

Atlas Film Fixers Philippines ensures a hassle-free experience for international film and TV crews by handling the necessary accreditation requirements.

Special Work Permit (SWP) Requirements

We facilitate the SWP application process with the Bureau of Immigration. No personal appearance required for foreign crew members

Required Documents for SWP Application

• Individual requirements: CGAF FORM; BIR FORM 1904; 2×2 Photo on white background; Scanned Bio Page of passport; Scanned Marriage Certificate and/or National ID of Spouse (if applicable); Accomplished Joint SPA (original signature required); Copy of Round Trip International Flights
• Group requirements: Working Contract; Contract for Bid; Flex Form A; Flex Form B

Timings

We handle the application process efficiently, ensuring minimal delays

Cost

$100 plus application costs, handled by Hoodlum Film Fixers

General Film Permit

Obtaining a general film permit is a crucial step in filming in the Philippines. Hoodlum Film Fixers Philippines helps you navigate the process.

Permitting Authorities

Provincial Government, City Government, Barangay (Village), Police, and/or Traffic Bureau depending on what subject matter is.

Processing Time

• 2-3 days for most locations
• Up to 1-2 weeks for government offices
• 6 months or more for military locations or support

Required Documents

Letter of request; Storyboard (not always required) and Project synopsis

Permit Fees

PHP 5,000.00 – PHP 50,000.00 (depending on the location)
Private establishments may charge more than PHP 100,000.00

Drone Permit

Atlas Film Fixers Philippines streamlines the drone permit process, ensuring a seamless experience for your film production.

Drone Regulations and Rentals

Local drone operators with various drones (FPV, Mavic Cine 3, Inspire 2, etc.)
Competitive rental rates: Mavic Cine 3 (PHP 25,000.00/day), Inspire 2 (PHP 50,000.00/day)

Drone Importation Regulations

Advance notice required for customs clearance letter from the Film Development Council of the Philippines. Special working permit for drone pilots facilitated by Hoodlum Film Fixers

Permitting Authorities

Same as general film permit authorities

Local Drone Permit Requirements

Storyboard/synopsis and Shoot schedule

Drone Importation Permit Requirements

Shoot schedule/synopsis and Storyboard

Processing Time

Same as general film permit (2-3 days to 6 months)

Equipment Customs Clearance

Carnet Country Status

The Philippines is not a Carnet country
Currently, a bond with customs is required for equipment importation via air or sea freight

Carnet Country Process

• Apply for Special Work Permit (SWP)
• Obtain guarantee letter of re-exportation from the Film Development Council of the Philippines
• Present letter to customs officials at the airport

Non-Carnet Country Process

Apply for customs clearance letter from the Film Development Council of the Philippines
Crew member bringing in equipment must apply for a special work permit (PHP 6,440.00 + USD 50.00)

Required Documents

Equipment list; Project synopsis; Crew member details

Issuing Organization

Philippines Customs

Processing Time

• Customs clearance letter: 3-5 days
• Special Work Permit: 1 week (no crew member appearance required)

Costs

• Freight costs: dependent on weight and destination
• Customs clearance letter and Special Work Permit: PHP 6,440.00 + USD 50.00

Safety and Security

Exercise caution when traveling, just like in any country. Generally safe in the Philippines, except for areas in the southernmost regions

Security Requirements

No mandatory security measures, unless specifically requested by production