SB19, Bam Aquino file bill seeking support for Filipino creatives going global - GMA Network

Senator Bam Aquino has filed a bill seeking to provide more government support for Filipino creative workers who travel abroad for professional opportunities, with SB19 helping him create the proposed measure.

The proposed Philippine Agency for the Creative Economy (PACE) Act aims to strengthen the international mobility of Filipino creatives and expand opportunities for Philippine creative goods and services in global markets.

The bill proposes the creation of PACE under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which would serve as the principal implementing office for the measure and Republic Act No. 11904, or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act.

Among its proposed programs is a Creative Mobility and International Participation Program, which would support qualified creative workers and enterprises joining international festivals, concerts and tours, exhibitions, trade fairs, film festivals, competitions, conferences, co-productions, and other similar activities.

Assistance may include international airfare and transportation, visa and travel documentation facilitation, support for visa and permit application costs, travel insurance, freight and logistics, equipment transport, and accommodation.

The bill also proposes a Creative Mobility Endorsement System, through which the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), in coordination with the DTI, could issue endorsements to qualified creative workers and enterprises participating in eligible international activities.

The proposed endorsements could support visa applications and other international engagements. However, the bill does not itself grant visas or guarantee entry into another country, as these remain subject to the rules and decisions of the destination country.

The measure also calls for a possible Creative Talent Mobility Facilitation and Fast-Track Mechanism, with the DFA pursuing arrangements with foreign governments and international partners to support more streamlined mobility pathways for Filipino creatives.

Beyond travel, the bill proposes a Creative Global Market Development Program to support international market entry, branding, business matching, distribution, licensing, commercialization, and other activities aimed at expanding Philippine creative exports.

On Facebook, SB19 said the bill was inspired in part by their song “VISA,” which reflects the group's experience in bringing Filipino music to international audiences.

“'VISA' reflects a reality we've experienced firsthand: sharing Filipino music with the world takes more than just getting to the stage,” the P-pop Kings said.

The group said the proposed measure is intended to benefit creatives beyond music.

“It's for all Filipino creatives who have something to share, whether through dance, film, design, writing, production, or any form of creative work, who dream of sharing their craft with the world.”

Composed of Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken, and Justin, SB19 is known for their songs "MAPA," "GENTO," and "Dungka!"