Entertainment press members in Metro Manila, such as editors, writers, and reporters, who lost work due to the outbreak of the viral disease may apply for a P5,000 financial support, FDCP said.
The national film agency further clarified that those who qualify for application are workers on a “no work, no pay” status, are not affiliated with a company, and are not eligible to receive government benefits.
“Napaka-crucial ng role na ginagampanan ng entertainment press para buhayin at bigyang kulay ang ating showbiz industry,” said FDCP Chairperson and CEO Liza Diño. [Translation: The entertainment press plays a crucial role in revitalizing our showbiz industry.]
“Unfortunately, they too, belong to the freelance sector and cannot be afforded unemployment benefits,” she added.
Meanwhile, audio-visual workers such as technical crew, production/post-production staff, on-camera performers, and other creatives who fall under the same qualifications may also avail of an P8,000 cash aid from the agency.
These initiatives are under FDCP’s Disaster/Emergency Assistance and Relief (DEAR) Program which was activated following President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of a nationwide state of calamity.
Diño said the program was launched to support freelancers not covered by the labor department’s COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program.
The application period for audio-visual workers is until April 23 this month, while press members have until April 30, 2020 to register. FDCP said online submissions are highly encouraged, but drop boxes for applications will still be available at its office.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 1) — The Film Development Council of the Philippines is offering financial support to freelance entertainment press members and audio-visual content industry workers affected by the COVID-19 crisis.
