Thai entertainment companies to explore Philippines for content, co-productions

Thailand is looking to deepen its foothold in the Philippine entertainment market as 18 Thai companies in the film, television and related industries head to Manila this month to explore co-production opportunities.

The companies will participate in “Thai Content In The Philippines” 2026, an initiative of Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, from Aug. 26 to 28.

The three-day program comes as Thai artists, actors and entertainment content continue to gain popularity among Filipino audiences amid the rise of streaming services.

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It can be recalled that there have been Filipino-Thai collaborations in the past. Thai actor Mario Maurer starred opposite Filipina actress Erich Gonzales in “Suddenly It’s Magic,” a 2012 romantic film produced by Star Cinema and released in both the Philippines and Thailand.

Additionally, Thai series—particularly boys’ love (BL) dramas—have also developed a strong following in the Philippines. “2gether: The Series,” starring Bright Vachirawit and Win Metawin, became a major hit among Filipino viewers during the pandemic.

DITP Director-General Sunanta Kangvalkulkij said the Philippines is considered one of the high-potential markets for Thailand’s content industry.

“The Philippines is one of ASEAN’s strategic markets with strong potential, both in terms of its consumer base and its dynamic media and entertainment industry,” Sunanta said in a statement.

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The participating companies are expected to showcase their content and services while seeking partnerships with Philippine distributors and importers.

The program will begin with company visits on Aug. 26 and 27 for the Thai delegates to meet with Philippine entertainment companies and organizations involved in the content industry.

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A business-matching event will follow on Aug. 28 and will conclude with a networking dinner between the Thai delegates and members of the Philippine entertainment industry. /*edv *