As his latest film Lasting Moments nears its June 4 playdate, filmmaker Fifth Solomon Pajotan reveals the harsh truth behind the curtain: getting a Filipino film shown in its own country remains an uphill battle.

In a candid social media post, Fifth shared that only a handful of cinemas have agreed to screen Lasting Moments, blaming the preference of mall operators and theater owners for foreign films.

His words struck a nerve in an industry long overshadowed by international blockbusters. Fifth asked: Why are Filipino films treated as second-class in their homeland? Why does the system burden local filmmakers with high taxes — 10% amusement tax and 12% VAT? And in the age of streaming, can local movies still compete on the big screen?

Fifth pointed to South Korea as a model for how government investment in culture can elevate a nation’s creative industries. “Ngayon, kilala na ng iba’t ibang lahi ang mga Koreanong pelikula, TV series, fashion, make-up, beauty products, pagkain, at turismo,” he said, urging the Philippines to reflect on what true cultural support looks like.

Despite the challenges, Fifth remains hopeful. He urged the public to support Lasting Moments, a heartfelt drama he promises will move viewers to tears—and remind them of the power of local storytelling.

“Magbaon kayo ng tissue — at ng pagmamahal para sa sariling atin,” he said.

Lasting Moments opens 4 June 2025, in select theaters nationwide.