Filmex bows out after 45 years, citing shifting industry landscape

Filmex, a long-standing player in film and television commercial production, has announced it will cease operations at the end of October, marking the close of a 45-year chapter in the Philippine creative industry.

The announcement was made through the company’s social media account on 15 September. “After a lot of thought, we've collectively decided it's time to say goodbye. Our industry is moving and changing so quickly, and with those shifts, we feel it's the right moment for us to step back and close this chapter of Filmex effective October 31, 2025,” the company wrote.

Filmex acknowledged the difficulty of the move, noting, “It wasn't an easy decision.” It reflected on its legacy, adding: “For 45 years, this company has been more than just work for us; it's been a home, a family, and a place where we've shared so many memories with you.”

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Filmex, under the leadership of chairman and president Jimmy Duavit, built its reputation across multiple formats - creating television commercials, producing TV programmes, and venturing into full-length feature films - while cultivating a strong line-up of influential in-house directors.

These directors who went on to leave a mark on the industry include Raymond Red, Henry Frejas, Mario Cornejo, Paolo Villaluna, Jenny Lao-Pastor, Dragon Pineda, and Mikhail Red. Some of Filmex’s recent projects include campaigns for Haleon Philippines (“ZUMBA”) and Nissan Philippines (“FORMULA E”), along with a special short film for the game Diablo Immortal (“The Druid”).

The company expressed gratitude to clients, partners, and collaborators over the years. “Together we've grown, stumbled, celebrated, and learned. And for that, we'll always be grateful.”

The announcement prompted an outpouring of support from artists and industry figures. Pia Magalona shared: “Thank you, Filmex! From my family and my late mom, Edwina Koch Arroyo, as well.” Actor Luis Manzano and filmmaker Mikhail Red also offered thanks, recognising the company’s contributions to the sector.

In closing, Filmex assured stakeholders that it remains focused on a responsible transition: “committed to responsibly addressing all outstanding obligations with care and consideration” before it formally ends its business operations.

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