President’s Hall, Malacañan Palace
May 21, 2025
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. warmly welcomed Executive Producer Manuel V. Pangilinan, together with the cast and production team of ‘The Last Resort’ — a Hollywood romantic comedy set in the Philippines — during a courtesy call at the President’s Hall in Malacañan Palace.
In his remarks, President Marcos Jr. expressed his gratitude to the production team, stating, “I’m so happy that now that you are in fact here, and the work has started. It’s all terribly exciting for all of us, and thank you for coming to the Philippines. Hopefully, helping us project the Philippines out of the world — the way Filipinos see our own country, and it’s a country we’re very, very proud of, the people are even prouder. I hope you get that in the time that you are here.”
During their meeting, the production team showcased behind-the-scenes footage,highlighting the Filipino cuisine, various tourist attractions and sites, as well as Filipino hospitality. “You hit all the right spots,” the President remarked, expressing satisfaction with the ongoing production.
According to producer Ernesto ‘Bong’ Sta. Maria Jr., the film, with a total budget of US$30 million, has so far been shot in five (5) locations around the Philippines: El Nido, Oslob, Cebu, Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, and Bonifacio Global City (BGC). This movie is seen to position the Philippines as a premier Hollywood filming destination, serve as a loving postcard for the Philippines, and boost the country’s tourism.
Directed by Donald Petrie who is known for ‘Miss Congeniality’ and ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’, and written by Karen McCullah, screenwriter of ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ and ‘Legally Blonde,’ the upcoming film stars Daisy Ridley and Alden Ehrenreich — both renowned for their roles in the ‘Star Wars’ franchise.
‘The Last Resort’ follows a hotel executive, played by Daisy Ridley, who is sent to scout a new resort location in the Philippines. She becomes captivated by the breathtaking scenery, the warm hospitality of the Filipino people and a charming expatriate charter pilot named Ben, played by Alden Ehrenreich.
The production is scheduled to wrap on May 28 with a planned release on Valentine’s Day of 2026.
* * *