SQ Films denies sabotage in delay of ‘Asiong’ prints
SQ Films Laboratories, Inc. owner Angelo A. Santos has denied Laguna Governor and “Manila Kingpin: The Story of Asiong Salonga” star E.R. Ejercito’s statement that sabotage was involved in the delayed release of the film’s prints.
E.R. added that the film opened only in 17 instead of 51 theaters last Christmas day due to the said delay. E.R. pointed out that this led to a drastic drop in revenues during the first day of the Metro Manila Film Festival, where “Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story” is one of the official entries.
Santos’ official statement reads:
“With all due respect to the Governor, we regret that the delay in release of prints was interpreted as sabotage, which we categorically deny. We also categorically deny that there has not been nor will there ever be any connivance between SQ Film Laboratories and the other production companies involved in this festival.
“For the record, with the consent of both production managers of Star Cinema and Scenema Concept, the printing of "Segunda Mano," was stopped to give way to the printing of the provincial copies of "Kingpin." SQ Film Laboratories is not involved in the distribution of prints to theaters.
“Our laboratories are the longest running film processing company in the Philippines and maintains the highest standard of professionalism. It is unfortunate that in the run up to the festival, the incoming and erratic traffic of material from different groups of filmmakers resulted in compromises to the final outcomes to all concerned.
“In line with our mission statement, our company "commits ourselves to serve the best interest of the company’s stockholders, employees, customers, suppliers, and the global environment through high standards of integrity by delivering quality and technical expertise through leading technology and innovation, competitive pricing and excellent customer service in pursuit of financial growth and excellence."
“We run our business with excellence and integrity and will continue to do so to provide the best service to the Filipino film industry.”
