For over a year now, this column has been a platform for updates on the film industry, including the projects and programs of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP). Whenever I share with you something new from the national film agency every Sunday, I focus on how it would contribute to Philippine Cinema. This time around, I'd like to put the spotlight on the people that make up the FDCP.

My dedicated FDCP staff members have always been working so hard without seeking validation because they are content with doing the best that they can to help nurture the industry they love. They are among our industry's unsung heroes, and on the occasion of the FDCP's 19th anniversary on June 7, I would like to dedicate this column to pay tribute to my beloved FDCP family and our shared experience on government service.

The FDCP has been my home for almost five years already, and I truly consider each of my staff as family. They are the reason why I am motivated to get up every day and do my work because I know that they share in the Agency's vision of having a globally competitive film industry that champions our culture and heritage.

They reassure me that I am never alone in the quest to make things better in the industry. In instances where individuals or groups clash with what we are pushing for in the industry, my team members make sure to express their support for me and the Agency, ensuring that they will protect the FDCP's legacy.

My FDCP family has been my rock and my strength, and the reason why the FDCP can fulfill its mission to be of service to the industry. It has been tough to be in public service, but being surrounded by an amazing team who I consider as family has made the experience worthwhile.

A better and stronger FDCP

Just like any other family, problems also arise in the FDCP. As we have been fine-tuning our processes to avert conflicts, we have realized how important it is to always discuss essential matters as a team. Despite confronting difficult situations, the respect for one another remains. After all, the goal is to get to the bottom of the issue to find a solution, and not to blame.

Apart from being driven by their dedication, I am also inspired by their humility.

Sometimes, I wonder how they feel about working for the national film agency, so I asked them and I would like to share some of their sentiments:

"In a wonderful way, my service in FDCP already feels like a lifetime because it's where I grew, where I met the most amazing people and organizations, and where I served with the most hardworking civil servants and leaders." - Executive Director 3 Ria Anne Rubia

"At FDCP, I got an opportunity to be mentored by the highest officer and I really brag about it, because it doesn't always happen. Chair Liza, who has organized so many opportunities for our team, has been so enthusiastic about our wellbeing." - FilmPhilippines Executive Director 1 Mirasol Cruz

"Before FDCP, I was actually thinking if there is an arm that is exclusively for the film industry. Now that I'm part of FDCP, I said to myself, 'So this is the thrill in serving the Philippine Film Industry.' It sends you to the edge and at the second moment you are in Nirvana because service to this industry is one of the most memorable parts in my life." - Content Production Manager Renneth Moldes.

"As a kid who used to watch films with the whole barangay in these small huts through VHS, I've always been fascinated by watching films together as a community. Now, I get to help out films in reaching their audience. There really is no greater joy than knowing that Philippine films are reaching their intended audience." - Unit Manager for Local Film Distribution Raymond Cutillar

"Being part of the FDCP allows me to serve the country along with like-minded individuals whose passion and dedication for Philippine Cinema are admirable and noteworthy." - Senior Editor Rosy Mina.

"The best part about working in FDCP is being around people that are driven and passionate. I really admire everyone's dedication in making sure that we are able to deliver to the best of our capabilities without expecting anything in return personally. The people I've worked with so far inspire me in the sense that they always find a way to make things work for the development of the industry." - Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino Program Officer Mags Agustin

"What I love about FDCP is that we have a diverse culture of staff, helping and building each other up to be able to serve our industry in the best way we can." - Executive Assistant to the Chairperson Maiza Ilustrisimo

Joys of leadership

In a couple of months, it will be my fifth year as Chairperson and CEO of the FDCP. Working in government service sometimes has a bad reputation because of its low pay and inadequacies. But in FDCP, I realized the complete opposite. Being in government has taught me a lot about putting others first before my personal needs; that it is a willful choice rather than a sacrifice. Thanks to my FDCP family, I have fully realized the meaning of "Para sa Bayan."

To my dearest FDCP family, I want to thank you for the respect, trust and confidence. I appreciate you and laud you for all your contributions to the industry. To have devoted employees like you is the greatest joy any leader can ask for. And I am so proud to see you grow into better public servants.

I cannot wait to realize more goals for the industry in FDCP's 19th year. Happy anniversary and I love you, my FDCP family. The industry and I are truly lucky and blessed to have you all. Happy 19th Birthday, FDCP!

Notes from the Chair is part of the Arts Awake section of The Sunday Times Magazine published by The Manila Times. Click HERE to view the article on The Manila Times website.