Hollywood film equipment supplier Birns & Sawyer Inc. plans to invest $50 million in the Philippine film production sector, according to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque met with Birns & Sawyer executives on March 5, 2025 as part of an investment roadshow in the United States.
“The Philippines has an incredibly rich pool of creative talent, and it’s time we fully harness that potential. By collaborating with industry leaders like Birns & Sawyer, we can create jobs, strengthen our film sector and drive economic growth,” said Roque.
The Los Angeles-based firm aims to support local talent and enhance the country’s film production capabilities.
Birns & Sawyer chief executive Mari Acevedo presented an initial plan to invest $15 million to $17 million in a state-of-the-art soundstage at the Filinvest property in New Clark City. It also plans to add two more soundstages in key locations. T
he company plans to work with Philippine universities to train fresh graduates, helping develop a globally competitive film workforce.
Acevedo also highlighted Birns & Sawyer’s efforts in the Philippines including cinematography workshops, co-production grants and participation in the Fil-Am Creative Film Festival.
The discussions also explored coproduction opportunities between Filipino and Hollywood filmmakers and grants and equipment support for local productions.
Birns & Sawyer’s expertise in film equipment rentals is expected to help modernize the country’s production infrastructure, the DTI said.
