Elisse Joson, Empoy Marquez, Benjie Paras start filming ‘Buddy’ in Finland

Elisse Joson, Empoy Marquez, and an ensemble cast of Filipino actors star in "Buddy,"  the first Filipino film to be shot in Finland.

The film has just started production in Helsinki, with Mavx Productions announcing the team’s arrival in Finland on Wednesday, August 12.

“FINLAND, WE’RE HERE! Because yep… we’re about to shoot the first Filipino film filmed in Finland!” the production team wrote in a social media post, sharing photos of the cast and crew.

Before filming began, the team paid a courtesy visit to the Philippine Embassy in Helsinki, where they met with Ambassador Domingo P. Nolasco. 

Nolasco briefed the team with insights into Finland’s culture, people, and way of life, as well as the growing Filipino community in the country. He also highlighted the Philippine government’s support for the creative industries and assured the team of the Embassy’s assistance throughout their stay.

“We talked about the film, the production, and how the Embassy can support us while we’re here. And we love that they’re just as excited as we are for this one,” the production shared. 

The delegation was led by executive producer and director Erwin Blanco, together with cast members Joson, Marquez, Michael de Mesa, and Benjie Paras.

Before their shooting schedule kicked in, the cast also took some time out to enjoy Helsinki. They went sightseeing, explored the city, and spent time bonding ahead of their busy days on set.

“A little ‘enjoy muna habang wala pang CALL TIME!’” the production team quipped.

Also joining the cast are Elijah Canlas, EA Guzman, and Shaira Diaz. Although they were not included in the initial photos shared by the production, they later flew to Finland to take part in the shoot.

The cast officially began filming in Finland on Thursday, August 13. The film is set to hit cinemas later this year.

“Buddy” is the latest project from Mavx Productions, which also produced the dark comedy-thriller “HBD2ME” (Happy Birthday To Me), starring Canlas and veteran actor John Arcilla. “HBD2ME” will be shown nationwide in cinemas on August 19.