SM Mall of Asia, Pasay City
April 19, 2017

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte led the unveiling of marker for the grand launching of Cine Lokal held at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Addressing all film producers, actors and actresses of Cine Lokal Films, government officials, members of the media and other invited guests, the President said that he considered his being the guest of honor on the event a privilege which reaffirms the government’s commitment to the development of the local film industry. He also highlighted the role of the cinema industry to nation building where the films depict the reality of life and showcases it to the audience.

“I am talking to you now about our country and what ails this country. Marami po. There are really so many things you can do, or go into, to improve our country. Motion pictures mirrors life, or life mirrors the movies. Ganoon ‘yan,” President Duterte explained.

The President reiterated his campaign promises and vowed to put an end to the illegal drugs operations, corruption, and criminality. According to him, illegal drugs will destroy the nation and the Filipino people. He also added that constant use of illegal drugs affects the mental ability of a person to function properly.

“I will not stop until the last drug lord is killed and the last pusher is out of the streets…. To destroy shabu, I have to destroy the apparatus,” the President stated.

Likewise, President Duterte said that this is the right time to help fight corruption and urged Filipinos to be assertive of their rights. He reminded the citizens to report to his office those who are involved in corruption and guaranteed that he will personally address these reports.

The launch is the first film-related event that the President attended since he assumed office.

Cine Lokal is a partnership between the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and SM Entertainment that dedicates eight commercial theatres for the exclusive screening of FDCP-curated independent and award-winning films throughout the country.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, FDCP Chairperson and CEO Mary Liza Diño, and SM Lifestyle Entertainment Inc. President Edgar Tejerero were also present during the event.

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