ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE
Advocates Philippines
Sagip Hanggang Dulo: A Bittersweet Curtain Call For ABS-CBN Film Restoration
FILE
After 14 years of giving life back to Philippine cinematic treasures, the ABS-CBN Film Restoration Project quietly ended its run last March 31, 2025. April became a month of transition—turnovers, sample works, and final bows—as the dedicated team closed this beautiful chapter. But make no mistake: they didn’t go gently into the night.
Against the odds and with limited resources, the small but mighty team powered through to the very last day, restoring as much as they could, fueled by passion, grit, and love for Filipino cinema. What began as a mission to preserve our film heritage became a movement. Over 240 films—from as early as 1939—were scanned, enhanced, restored, and reintroduced to new audiences. That legacy alone is something to be proud of.
This closure, however, is not without context. Many still see it as a lingering consequence of the network’s shutdown in 2020—a result of political decisions that caused dreams to crumble and careers to end. But even then, the Film Restoration team kept the flame burning. And for that, they deserve more than applause—they deserve a standing ovation.
As the lights dim on this particular stage, there’s hope still. While the restoration department is no more, its advocacy continues. Star Cinema and Cinemo are taking the reins of Sagip Pelikula starting May 2025. It’s not the same, but the spirit lives on.
The team extended their heartfelt gratitude to those who made this journey possible: Gabby Lopez and Charo Santos for planting the seed, Carlo Katigbak for buying them more time, and Cory Vidanes for being the anchor in stormy seas. There’s also deep appreciation for collaborators, labs, sound engineers, creatives, celebrities, and advocates—everyone who believed in the power of old films made new again.
And of course, special mentions go to Piolo Pascual, Sagip’s day-one supporter, and National Artist Ricky Lee, who brought soul and meaning to every frame.
Through the years, many came and went, but the passion remained the same. From pioneers to the final team of five—Julie, Mik, Marco, Jane, and their leader Leo Katigbak—it felt like Survivor. The torches may have been snuffed, but the fire they ignited will never be put out.
Their journey began with Himala… and ended with Tatlong Ina, Isang Anak. A poetic full circle, both films starring National Artist Nora Aunor—a fitting tribute to the richness of Philippine cinema and the enduring strength of women behind and in front of the camera.
As Leo Katigbak signs off, he leaves us with this:
“Preserving the past to inspire the future is a never-ending quest… Sa mga tumangkilik, naniwala, nanaginip… maraming salamat po.”
The credits may have rolled, but the impact will echo for generations.
Long live Sagip Pelikula.
Against the odds and with limited resources, the small but mighty team powered through to the very last day, restoring as much as they could, fueled by passion, grit, and love for Filipino cinema. What began as a mission to preserve our film heritage became a movement. Over 240 films—from as early as 1939—were scanned, enhanced, restored, and reintroduced to new audiences. That legacy alone is something to be proud of.
This closure, however, is not without context. Many still see it as a lingering consequence of the network’s shutdown in 2020—a result of political decisions that caused dreams to crumble and careers to end. But even then, the Film Restoration team kept the flame burning. And for that, they deserve more than applause—they deserve a standing ovation.
As the lights dim on this particular stage, there’s hope still. While the restoration department is no more, its advocacy continues. Star Cinema and Cinemo are taking the reins of Sagip Pelikula starting May 2025. It’s not the same, but the spirit lives on.
The team extended their heartfelt gratitude to those who made this journey possible: Gabby Lopez and Charo Santos for planting the seed, Carlo Katigbak for buying them more time, and Cory Vidanes for being the anchor in stormy seas. There’s also deep appreciation for collaborators, labs, sound engineers, creatives, celebrities, and advocates—everyone who believed in the power of old films made new again.
And of course, special mentions go to Piolo Pascual, Sagip’s day-one supporter, and National Artist Ricky Lee, who brought soul and meaning to every frame.
Through the years, many came and went, but the passion remained the same. From pioneers to the final team of five—Julie, Mik, Marco, Jane, and their leader Leo Katigbak—it felt like Survivor. The torches may have been snuffed, but the fire they ignited will never be put out.
Their journey began with Himala… and ended with Tatlong Ina, Isang Anak. A poetic full circle, both films starring National Artist Nora Aunor—a fitting tribute to the richness of Philippine cinema and the enduring strength of women behind and in front of the camera.
As Leo Katigbak signs off, he leaves us with this:
“Preserving the past to inspire the future is a never-ending quest… Sa mga tumangkilik, naniwala, nanaginip… maraming salamat po.”
The credits may have rolled, but the impact will echo for generations.
Long live Sagip Pelikula.
May 2, 2025
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
