Carlo Carrasco, On February 15, 2012

MANILA, Philippines – Rachel Weisz, the star of such films like The Mummy, Constantine and The Constant Gardener, was clearly captivated by the stunning natural beauty and landmarks of Palawan while shooting The Bourne Legacy there.

According to local Bourne producer and Philippine Film Studios, Inc. official Jun Juban, the multi-awarded actress expressed her deep admiration for the island and even went as far as telling him that can ‘live’ in Palawan ‘forever’.

It is expected that the praise from the 41-year-old Weisz will undoubtedly strengthen Palawan’s tourism appeal in the months leading up to the August opening of The Bourne Legacy in theaters. It also happens that summer vacation in the Philippines will begin next month already and the buzz involving Weisz’s praise is already generating interest among Filipinos to visit Palawan.


Bourne Film Crew and Veteran Hollywood Producers Like Palawan

Jun Juban also revealed that in addition to Rachel Weisz, the other cast members and the production team are also in awe with Palawan and have pretty much enjoyed their stay there. Other than marveling at the scenic spots and experiencing the relaxing atmosphere, the production team led by producers Patrick Crowley and Frank Marshall clearly enjoyed the local hospitality and were very thankful for the attention they received.

Crowley is credited for producing the Bourne films since the beginning and produced one episode of the hit TV series Hawaii Five-0. Marshall on the other hand is a well known collaborator on several Steven Spielberg films including The Color Purple, Empire of the Sun, and the entire Indiana Jones film franchise.


Economic Benefits for the Philippines

Long before Palawan and Manila get showcased on the big screens via The Bourne Legacy’s global release this August, Juban expressed that the production is already benefiting the Philippines economically.

“There are close to 200 staff, crew and actors involved in this film. This means 10,000 hotel room nights spread in two major hotels in Manila. This has definitely exceeded initial projections,” Juban elaborated.

Juban went on to thank the support given by the MMDA (Metropolitan Manila Development Authority), Executive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa, Jr., the DILG (Department of Interior and Local Government), DOF (Department of Finance), DOT (Department of Tourism) and the respective governments of Pasay, Manila, Quezon City, Navotas and Marikina.


Promising Future

With so much positive buzz involving Rachel Weisz, the producers and the film crew over the last several weeks, it is expected that The Bourne Legacy will be a hit and help sell the Philippines as a solid place for tourism and even location film shoots.