Metro Manila Development Authority chief Bayani Fernando, who is also executive committee chair of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), expressed fear of some entries being "banned" from this year’s festivities.

Fernando made the announcement at a recent press conference, citing three of seven official movie entries featuring actor-politicians.

“The possible ban may be brought on by Section 80 of the Omnibus Election Code, which prohibits ‘any person … to engage in an election campaign or partisan political activity except during the campaign period (90 days before the polls).’”

Fernando singled out movies featuring Sen. Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao.

Fernando said the Commission on Elections (Comelec) may consider the movies as campaign vehicles.

Both Revilla and Pacquaio who are appearing on “Panday” and “Wapakman,” respectively, had expressed their desire to run in the upcoming elections.

Another film mentioned by Fernando is “Juan” featuring TV-host Willie Revillame who is rumored to be gunning for an elective post in 2010.

MMFF execom member Boots Anson-Roa, also Mowelfund executive director, is concerned about the issue.

“It would be a pity for the festival to lose ‘Panday,’” she told a popular daily. “It is expected to be one of the top grossers this season—festival beneficiaries will be adversely affected.”

She is planning to appeal the matter to the Comelec.

Manuel Nuqui, president of the Philippine Motion Pictures Producers Association, was not too worried, though, because Comelec chair Jose Melo has spoken in favor of actor-politicians, citing Ara Mina as example.

“Ara Mina visited the Comelec recently to ask if she could still work as an actress even if she plans to run for Quezon City councilor. She said her (GMA 7) soap opera and sitcom were her main sources of [income]. Melo reportedly told her it was okay, as long as she wouldn’t be campaigning on the programs,” said Nuqui.