THE movie “Rewind,” which grossed more than P800 million at the 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival to become the “highest grossing film ever,” is a sure sign that the Philippine movie industry is recovering from the pandemic.
Sen. Robinhood “Robin” C. Padilla stressed this Monday as he welcomed the development as a much-needed piece of good news amid recent controversies in politics and government.
“This achievement is a testament to the return of a vibrant and flourishing Philippine film industry – attributed to the hard work and commitment of artists, writers, directors, and all members of the production teams,” he said in Senate Resolution 909.
He congratulated the artists, producers, directors, writers, and all behind the movie “Rewind” starring real-life couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera-Dantes.
Padilla, in his resolution, also lauded the victory of “Rewind,” directed by Mae Cruz-Alviar.
He noted how the pandemic forced the film industry to grind to a halt – prompting “indefinite delays in film production, closure of movie theaters, and imposition of social distancing restrictions to the general public.”
Also, he said he is happy that the MMFF 2023 was the “highest-grossing edition of all time,” due in large part to the hard work of the artists, writers, directors and production teams.
Padilla added Dingdong and Marian remain an inspiration not just in reel but in real life, promoting “family values, entrepreneurship and philanthropic deeds.”
“Recognizing this victory as well as the people behind it proves our pride and gratitude to those who relentlessly work to contribute to the evolution of the country’s cinematic landscape,” he said.
