Around GMA

Wilma slightly accelerates, 27 areas under Signal No. 1
Torres game-winner saves Benilde, forces semis do-or-die versus SBU 

Article Inside Page

Showbiz News

Filipino-American actors Nico Santos, Mark Dacascos and their families were feted at the private dinner hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

A few weeks before Christmas day, an intimate dinner at the very private Manila House in Bonifacio Global City saw Fil-Am Hollywood celebrities, film industry leaders, and cultural advocates celebrating the Filipino creativity and global influence.

The dinner, hosted by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines in partnership with lifestyle magazine Tatler Philippines, honored two Filipino-American talents, Nico Santos and Mark Dacascos, whose exceptional careers have helped elevate Filipino representation in Hollywood. Both actors have participated in the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), where they shared a wealth of experience with the local film community through insightful Masterclass sessions aimed at inspiring the next generation of Philippine filmmakers.

Nico Santos, with his mother Tita Villanueva and partner Zeke Smith, don their modern Filipiniana attire at the dinner.

Mark Dacascos and family pose in front of the Love the Philippines logo for the cameras.

Distinguished guests were treated to a curated dinner, while engaging in lively discussions about the future of Filipino talents in global entertainment and the immense potential for the Philippines to become the next hot spot for international film production.

In her remarks, DOT Assistant Secretary Gissela Quisumbing emphasized the importance of these connections for promoting Filipino creativity: “We are privileged to celebrate two exceptional Filipino-American talents who have proudly brought Filipino artistry to the global stage. The industry has gained so much from your experiences, and there is a collective hope that sessions like these can happen again soon.”

The presence of Filipino stars in Hollywood, like Santos and Dacascos, serves as a powerful reminder of the country's growing influence in the global entertainment industry. As Quisumbing noted, these connections are key to elevating the Philippines as an attractive film destination, offering unique landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant creative community.

Tatler Philippines' Managing Director, Irene Martel Francisco and Editor-in-Chief, Anton San Diego, along with Nico Santos and TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles are all smiles at this celebratory dinner.

New friendships are forged and old ones are reignited at this dinner where Filipino talent is celebrated.

Throughout the evening, the conversation centered on the exciting potential for the Philippines to host more international productions, showcasing the country's diverse locations - from tropical beaches to historical landmarks - and talented professionals ready to collaborate with filmmakers from around the world. As Filipino-American talents continue to break new ground in Hollywood, the Philippines stands poised to be the next go-to destination for filmmakers seeking fresh stories and settings.

As TPB COO Marga Nograles noted, “This event is a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and the strong ties between the Philippines and the global entertainment community. We are excited about the future, and we are confident that the Philippines will continue to shine brightly on the world stage as a premier destination for filmmaking.”

The evening not only celebrated Filipino talent but also set the stage for future collaborations, with TPB, DOT, and industry leaders committed to strengthening the Philippines' position as a key player in the international film industry.

Distinguished guests were treated to a curated dinner by Manila House.