The legendary works of Fernando Poe Jr., also known as the “King of Philippine Movies,” have been honored with a place in the UNESCO Memory of the World (MoW) Program. A total of 168 of his films, carefully preserved by his family in the FPJ Film Archives, have now been recognized as a vital part of the nation’s cultural memory.
This recognition was made possible through the efforts of the Philippine MoW Committee, chaired by acclaimed filmmaker and film historian Nick Deocampo. According to UNESCO, the MoW Program exists to safeguard the world’s documentary heritage and ensure it remains accessible for generations to come.
Senator Grace Poe, FPJ’s daughter, expressed her deep gratitude for this acknowledgment. She shared how much work went into maintaining the film collection and preserving her father’s cinematic legacy. In her speech, she pointed out how these films were not just entertainment; they were snapshots of history and reflections of the Filipino experience.
FPJ’s movies became cultural touchstones for many Filipinos, especially during times of hardship. His characters, often humble men standing up against injustice, resonated with the struggles of everyday people. His storytelling gave voice to those often unheard, especially during the post-World War II era, when the Philippines was grappling with political and social challenges.
Senator Poe noted that her father’s movies helped Filipinos see themselves as heroes in their own right. “Films are like moving history books,” she said, explaining how vital they are in preserving national identity and values. She also stressed the importance of film preservation, saying that losing a film is like losing a part of who we are.
The FPJ Film Archives now joins eight other notable Philippine entries in the MoW list, such as the presidential papers of Manuel Quezon, the historic EDSA radio broadcasts, the Doctrina Christiana (one of the first printed books in the Philippines), and the film Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kami Ngayon? by Eddie Romero.
These recognized works represent key parts of the Filipino story. As Senator Poe beautifully put it, they help shape how we understand our past and define who we are today.
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