ABOUT
MOWELFUND

The MOVIE WORKERS WELFARE FOUNDATION, INC. (MOWELFUND) is a non-stock, non-profit social welfare, educational, and industry development foundation organized and established in 1974 by then Producer/Actor Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada, former Philippine President and incumbent Manila mayor, to serve marginalized workers in the Philippine motion picture industry.

In the 70’s and the 80’s, MOWELFUND initiated the expansion of the Manila Film Festival to become the now-popular Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). It helped rationalize the movie industry by contributing to the creation of agencies like the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP). It took part in reorganizing the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). It has also initiated the campaign against film and video piracy.

MOWELFUND’s range of activities and record of accomplishments for more than four (4) decades now make it an organization of pivotal importance and coordination for the various institutions and guilds involved with Philippine cinema. It is managed by a Board of Trustees comprising respected leaders in Philippine cinema. Through its education arm, the Mowelfund Film Institute (MFI), the foundation has likewise reached beyond Philippine shores, developing international linkages, and participating in various film exhibitions by its graduates and by mainstream producers and directors.

By the nature of its commitment, Mowelfund initiatives and programs are geared to fortify the key cornerstone of the industry – the dedicated movie worker, whose creativity and labor continuously enrich the tapestry of Filipino film heritage.

“The philosophy of MOWELFUND’S creation rests on the belief that above all, development starts with the most important element in the industry; The Movie Worker.”

 -Joseph “Erap” Ejercito Estrada-
Chairman Emeritus

VISION

MOWELFUND is the sole welfare based institution that enhances and nurtures the needs of the Filipino film community in partnership with stakeholders to uplift their socioeconomic condition for a better quality of life.

MISSION

MOWELFUND will continue to serve the needs of the Filipino film community particularly its members through welfare, education, research and development by harnessing resources and opportunities in partnership with stakeholders and benefactors.

WELFARE PROGRAM

To rationalize its welfare program and look for alternative and effective means to address the needs of beneficiaries.

EDUCATION AND DEVELOPMENT

To help uplift the state of Philippine film culture and pursue innovative strategies to support the film industry.

INTERNATIONAL AND LOCAL LINKAGES AND PARTNERSHIPS

To actively establish linkages and partnerships with local and international organizations, thus expand its outreach and increase its internal capability.

RESOURCE GENERATION

To actively undertake resource generation activities to insure the sustainability of MOWELFUND and pursue effectively its welfare and educational programs.

HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

To enable and empower management and staff to respond effectively to changing environment to attain the vision, mission and goals of the organization.