Final call: FAP sets July 31 deadline for 2026 Oscar entries

Filmmakers urged to submit now as the Philippines searches for its next Academy Awards contender.

With the deadline fast approaching, the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP) is urging filmmakers and producers to submit their entries for consideration as the country’s official bet to the 99th Academy Awards’ Best International Feature Film category.

Applications for the Philippine Oscar Selection Process will be accepted only until July 31, 2026.

FAP Director-General Paolo Villaluna called on industry players to take part, stressing that each submission helps spotlight the strength of local cinema on the global stage.

“Every submission is an opportunity to showcase the creativity, diversity, and excellence of Philippine cinema,” Villaluna said in a statement. “We look forward to selecting a film that will proudly represent the Philippines on one of the world’s most prestigious stages for filmmaking.”

To qualify, films must meet the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) requirements, including a feature-length runtime of over 40 minutes, predominantly non-English dialogue, and a minimum seven-day theatrical run within the eligibility period of October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2026.

Entries must also be exhibited in approved formats, remain under primary Filipino creative control, and must not have been publicly released on streaming, television, or other non-theatrical platforms before their qualifying run.

Films that have yet to complete their theatrical exhibition may still apply, provided they can submit proof of a confirmed screening schedule within the eligibility window.

Producers are required to submit a letter of intent, accomplished application and consent forms, a notarized Creative Control Affidavit, as well as screeners and press materials.

All eligible entries will undergo evaluation by a National Selection Committee composed of at least seven members, the majority of whom are filmmakers and industry practitioners. The process includes eligibility verification, screenings, and a two-round voting system based on artistic merit, cultural relevance, and international campaign potential.

Villaluna emphasized that the selection process goes beyond choosing a single film.

“It is an opportunity to recognize the remarkable achievements of Filipino filmmakers and present the very best of Philippine cinema to the world,” he said.

The Philippines’ most recent submission was Lav Diaz’s “Magellan” (2025). The FAP has also backed recent Oscar campaigns for “Vox Humana” (2024) for live action short film.

Submission guidelines are available through the Film Academy of the Philippines, with entries and inquiries accepted via email.

Through its annual Oscar selection process, the FAP continues to champion Filipino filmmakers and elevate Philippine cinema on the international stage.

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