MMFF 2025 awards night highlights - "I'mPerfect" win Best Picture

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The MMFF 2025 awards night saw "I'mPerfect" win Best Picture, with Vice Ganda taking Best Actor for Call Me Mother, and Krystel Go winning Best Actress for I'mPerfect

     Photo : MMFF FB

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) held the Gabi ng Parangal 2025 (Awards Night) on Saturday, December 27, at Dusit Thani Manila in Makati City, recognizing the year’s outstanding films, artists, and technical achievements. With the theme “A New Era for Philippine Cinema,” this year’s festival features eight official entries, reflecting a diverse mix of genres, narratives, and performances from some of the country’s biggest and emerging stars.

Here's the MMFF’s most significant highlights:

Major Awards Winners

Best Picture 1st: I'mPerfect

2nd: Unmarry

3rd: Manila's Finest and Call Me Mother

Best Actress in a Leading Role 

Krystel Go – I'mPerfect

Best Actor in a Leading Role 

Vice Ganda – Call Me Mother

Best Director 

Jeffrey Jeturian – Unmarry

Best Actress in a Supporting Role 

Odette Khan – Bar Boys: After School

Best Actor in a Supporting Role 

Tom Rodriguez – Unmarry

Best Child Performer 

Lucas Andalio – Call Me Mother

Best Screenplay 

Chris Martinez and Therese Cayaba – Unmarry

Best Editing 

Benjo Ferrer – Unmarry

Best Cinematography 

Raymond Red – Manila's Finest

Best Production Design 

Digo Ricio – Manila's Finest

Best Visual Effects Santelmo Inc. – 

Shake, Rattle & Roll Evil Origins

Best Sound 

Roy Santos – Manila's Finest

Best Musical Score 

Frederik Sandoval and Emerzon Texon – Manila's Finest

Best Original Theme Song 

"Sandalan" by Vehnee Saturno – Manila's Finest

Special AwardsWinners

Gat Puno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award  

 Manila's Finest

FPJ Memorial Award 

Bar Boys: After School

Best Float Award 

Manila's Finest and Unmarry

Gender Sensitivity 

Award Call Me Mother

Special Jury Prize (Best Ensemble)

I'mPerfect

Breakthrough Performance Award 

Zack Sibug – Unmarry

MMFF Hall of Fame Award -

 Best Actress Judy Ann Santos

MMFF Hall of Fame Award 

Best Production Award 

Ericson Navarro

Male Star of the Night

Will Ashley and Dustin Yu

Female Star of the Night

Bianca de Vera

I’mPerfect took home the Best Picture honor, with Unmarry and Manila’s Finest / Call Me Mother following closely in the top placements.

Vice Ganda made headlines by winning Best Actor for Call Me Mother — a landmark achievement for the comedian in the MMFF awards scene, with critics and audiences alike praising the performance and the film’s emotional depth.

Manila’s Finest emerged as the most decorated film of the night, sweeping multiple technical awards including Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Sound, Best Musical Score, Best Original Theme Song, and the Gat Puno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award, highlighting its artistic and cultural impact.

The ceremony also paid a heartfelt tribute to National Artist and Philippine cinema legend Nora Aunor, who passed away earlier in 2025, honoring her enduring legacy in the industry.

Other highlights included Best Actress for Krystel Go (I’mPerfect), special recognitions such as the Gender Sensitivity Award for Call Me Mother, and ensemble honors, reflecting the diversity and strength of Filipino filmmaking showcased at MMFF 2025.

The ceremony was hosted by KaladKaren, Enchong Dee, Maoui David, and Michael Sager. The program featured special performances by The Voice USA champion Sofronio Vasquez, teen sensations Rabin Angeles and Angela Muji, and powerhouse vocalist Jona.

The MMFF 2025 nationwide screening runs from December 25 until January 2026.

Winners of 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal, "Green Bones" named as Best Picture

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"Green Bones," an inspirational prison story produced by GMA Public Affairs, was named Best Picture at the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi Ng Parangal held on Friday, December 27 at the Solaire Grand Ballroom in Paranaque City

Judy Ann Santos won Best Actress for her role in the horror flick "Espantaho" while Dennis Trillo was named Best Actor for "Green Bones.

Here's MMFF 2024 complete list of winners:

Major AwardsWinners

• Best Picture 1st: Green Bones
• 2nd: The Kingdom
• 3rd: My Future You
• 4th: Isang Himala

Best Actress in a Leading Role 

• Judy Ann Santos - Espantaho

Best Actor in a Leading Role 

• Dennis Trillo - Green Bones

Best Director

• Crisanto Aquino (My Future You) and 
• Michael Tuviera (The Kingdom)

Best Actress in a Supporting Role 

• Kakki Teodoro - Isang Himala

Best Actor in a Supporting Role 

• Ruru Madrid - Green Bones

Best Child Performer 

• Sienna Stevens - Green Bones

Best Screenplay 

• Ricky Lee and Angeli Atienza - Green Bones

Best Editing 

• Vanessa Ubas De Leon - My Future You

Best Cinematography

• Neil Daza - Green Bones

Best Production Design 

• Nestor Abrogena - The Kingdom

Best Visual Effects 

• The Kingdom

Best Sound 

• Strange Frequencies:Taiwan Hospital Killer

Best Musical Score 

• Vincent de Jesus - Isang Himala

Best Original Theme Song 

• Ang Himala ay Nasa Puso by Juan Karlos - Isang Himala

Special AwardsWinners

Gat Puno Antonio Villegas Cultural Award 

• The Kingdom

FPJ Memorial Award 

• Topakk

Best Float Award 

• Topakk
• Uninvited

Gender Sensitivity Award 

• And The Bread Winner Is…

Lifetime Achievement Award 

• Joseph 'Erap' Ejercito-Estrada

Special Jury Prize 

• Topakk 
• Isang Himala

Special Jury Citation 

• Vice Ganda

Breakthrough Performance Award 

• Seth Fedelin - My Future You

Student short film

Best Picture

• Saan Aabot Ang 50 Pesos Mo? – University of Makati (Best Picture)
• A Delivery Rider – City of Malabon University (2nd Best Picture)
• PNB 12–50– University of the Philippines Mindanao (3rd Best Picture)
• Special Jury PrizeInang Wak-wak – Mindanao State University

The Gabi ng Parangal was hosted by Robi Domingo, Gabbi Garcia, Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Tim Yap.

Jefrë Figueras Manuel designed the MMFF trophy featuring a silver figurine with an upper torso of film reel and filmstrip.

MMFF nationwide screening runs from December 25 until January 7, 2025.

Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, matched by fate, divided by time at 'My Future You', a movie for everyone this Christmas at the MMFF 2024

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This Christmas season, gather your family, loved ones and friends as FranSeth's love team makes their big-screen debut this Christmas at the MMFF's golden anniversary

Celebrate love, family, and create your own destiny with 'My Future You,' Regal Entertainment's heartwarming romantic-family drama premiering on December 25, 2024, as an official entry to the golden anniversary celebration of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

Starring Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, the film tells the story of two people connected by a mysterious comet and a dating app that bridges their timelines—2009 and 2024. Together, they attempt to rewrite the past to build a brighter future, but their choices lead to unforeseen consequences.

Joining FranSeth (as their love team is fondly called) is a stellar cast, including Almira Muhlach, Christian Vasquez, Peewee O’Hara, Bodjie Pascua, Mosang, Marcus Madrigal, Vance Larena, Izzy Canillo, Angelica Lao, with special participation by Alex Calleja and Donna Cariaga.

With its once-in-a-blue-moon Rated G classification from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), 'My Future You' is indeed the best choice for a feel-good, family-friendly movie this Christmas — perfect for viewers of all ages!

Official Synopsis

In 2009, Lex (Seth Fedelin) discovers a dating app that inexplicably links him to Karen (Francine Diaz) in 2024. As their connection deepens, Karen asks Lex to help her change moments from her past to prevent her parents’ separation. But every change brings unintended consequences, reshaping their lives in unpredictable ways. As they approach their final chance to fix everything, Lex and Karen must decide whether their love can withstand the forces of time.

Filmmaker's Vision: Parallel Journeys, One Destiny

Writer-director Crisanto B. Aquino, winner of Best Screenplay in MMFF 2019, shares the inspiration behind 'My Future You': While stuck in his apartment, a conversation with a friend sparked the idea: “What if two people, bored and lonely, connect through a random chat—only to discover they live in different timelines?”

Direk Cris describes the journey of creating the film as one of resilience and patience. The project evolved and grew over the years. Finally, in 2024, everything aligned for it to be brought to life with the emerging Kapamilya love team.

He reflects on FranSeth being part of this project, “May plano talaga ang Diyos sa lahat. Alam niya ang right timing. Tiwala lang at patience. (God really has a plan for everything. He knows the right timing. Just trust and have patience.)

"This movie taught me to believe in my work, my worth, and my talent.”

This rom-fam drama also showcases Aquino’s meticulous attention to detail in aligning the two timelines. Working closely with production designer Ericson Navarro and director of photography Jeyow Evangelista, Direk Cris ensured that while 2009 and 2024 were distinct in tone and design, their visual parallels reflected the characters’ shared journey toward love and purpose.

'My Future You' Media Launch held at the Valencia Events Place, November  27, 2024

(L-R)  One of the movie cast,Mosang, Regal Entertainment's Executive Producers Keith Monteverde and Roselle Y. Monteverde, Francine Diaz, Seth Fedelin and Director Crisanto Aquino

FranSeth’s First Film Together

'My Future You' marks the highly anticipated big-screen debut of the pairing of Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin. First captivating fans in the hit ABS-CBN teleserye Kadenang Ginto, the love team now brings their chemistry to a greater height, building expectations and challenges for the two.

Director Crisanto Aquino recalls being impressed by their professionalism and commitment to their roles. “From our first table read, I knew I had found my Karen and Lex. Their dedication and natural connection brought the story to life. It’s their time, and they didn’t disappoint.”

The pair’s natural charm and “kilig” moments are sure to delight their fans while staying humble to the emotional core of the film.

The Regal Legacy Continues

As part of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival, Regal Entertainment Inc. upholds its legacy of delivering films that resonate deeply with Filipino audiences here and abroad. From classic dramas to groundbreaking festival entries, Regal has shaped generations of moviegoers and continues to do so with “My Future You.”

Executive producer Roselle Y. Monteverde reflects on the film’s message: “For decades, we’ve been part of your Christmas traditions—making you laugh, cry, and believe in love. ‘My Future You’ celebrates everything we hold dear: family, love, and hope for a brighter tomorrow. This is a perfect gift to all Filipinos.”

The film’s official theme song, Eliza Maturan’s “Museo,” perfectly captures the longing and magic of the story. It’s a film everyone can enjoy together with lessons to bring and discuss even after the credits roll. The story explores universal struggles tied together by a unique and magical concept.

As the writer-director puts it, “I hope the audience will realize how to value the people around them, especially their family and loved ones. Sometimes, we search so hard for love, not realizing it’s already there.”

Executive produced by Lily Y. Monteverde †, Roselle Y. Monteverde, and Keith Monteverde, Regal Entertainment's entry to this year's MMFF is in line with the heart of its legacy — beating strong as it embraces fresh, innovative storytelling.

This Christmas, gather your loved ones and rediscover the magic of connection, hope, and belonging. Catch 'My Future You' in cinemas nationwide starting December 25, 2024 and make this holiday season unforgettable and magical as always!

BPSF gives a meaningful support for local cinema workers. Ang Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair: A beacon of support during the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival

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Marking a significant and enjoyful event for cinema workers availing of free services from various government agencies, receive financial assistance and sacks of rice at the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair with a theme "Paglinang sa Industriya ng Paglikha (AKAPin ang Manggagawa ng Pelikulang Pilipino)" at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City, Oct. 13 Sunday and also on Monday (Oct 14.)

In conjunction with the grand celebration of the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), a landmark event known as the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair was held for cinema workers at the Philippine Sports Arena on October 13-14. This initiative, spearheaded by the leadership of the MMFF and its principal stakeholders—the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MOWELFUND), the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), and AKTOR—aligned with the festival's commitment to bolster the flourishing Philippine cinema industry by directly supporting its backbone: the cinema workers.

The fair is established on the foundation of delivering Mabilis, Maayos, Maginhawa, at Masayang serbisyo publiko, featuring 23 participating agencies that will provide over 100 programs aimed at enhancing the welfare and growth of industry members.

This pioneering initiative is anchored in the Bagong Pilipinas vision promoted by President Marcos, marking a significant step towards recognizing and advocating for the cultural and economic contributions of the creative arts industry to the nation.

Organized under the visionary leadership of House Speaker Atty. Martin G. Romualdez and in strategic partnership with the MMFF leadership , and stakeholders. The Serbisyo Fair was crafted to bridge government services and benefits more closely to those who contribute tirelessly behind the scenes of the film industry. Spearheading this momentous event were MMFF's Chairman, Atty. Romando Artes; MOWELFUND Chairman, Boots Anson Roa, alongside President and CEO, Rez Cortez; and from the FDCP, Chairman Joey Reyes with Executive Director III, Daniel David Morales, guiding the charge.

"The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair is a pivotal step in ensuring that our cinema workers are recognized, celebrated, and above all, supported," stated Atty. Romando Artes during the event's opening ceremony. "Through the collective efforts of the MMFF, MOWELFUND, FDCP, FAP, and AKTOR, we bring forth an era where the government's helping hand is more accessible to the people who form the backbone of our country's cinematic ventures."

Over two days, thousands of cinema workers availed themselves of various government services and benefits, which were specifically tailored to address their unique needs and concerns. The fair not only served as a platform for assistance but also strengthened the sense of community within the industry by providing novelties such as workshops, health consultations, and entertainment segments.

Boots Anson Roa, Chairman of MOWELFUND, emphasized the fair's role in uplifting the lives of cinema workers. "This is more than just an event; it's a testament to our continuous commitment to enhancing the welfare of every individual who contributes to the magic of Philippine cinema," she remarked.

The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair sets a benchmark for future initiatives aiming to support local cinema workers. Through collaboration and unified support, the MMFF and its stakeholders demonstrate an unwavering dedication to the prosperity and well-being of the film industry's unsung heroes, laying down a solid foundation for their recognition and security.

Metro Manila Film Festival announces the first five official entries for its 50th edition

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The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) announces the first five official entries for its 50th edition in December.  The first five MMFF entries are:

1. And The Breadwinner Is…
by: ABS-CBN Films (Star Cinema) and The IdeaFirst Company

Genre: Comedy / Drama
Cast: Vice Ganda, Eugene Domingo, Maris Racal, Anthony Jennings, Kokoy De Santos, Via Antonio, Jhong Hilario, Gladys Reyes and Ms, Gina Parreño
Writer: Daisy Cayanan, Jumbo Albano, Jun Lana
Director: Jun Robles Lana

2. Green Bones
By GMA Pictures

Genre: Suspense Drama
Cast: Dennis Trillo, Sofia Pablo
Writer: Ricky Lee, Angeli Atienza
Director:Zig Dulay

3. Strange Frequencies: Haunted Hospital
By Reality MM Studios

Genre: Horror
Cast: Jane de Leon, Enrique Gil, Rob Gomez, Alexa Miro, MJ Lastimosa
Writer: Kerwin Go, Dustin Celestino, Leovic Arceta
Director: Kerwin Go

4. Himala, Isang Musikal

by Kapitol Films and Unitel

Genre: Musical

Cast: Aicelle Santos, Bituin Escalante, David Ezra, Vic Robinson

Writer: Ricky Lee, Pepe Diokno

Director: Pepe Diokno

5. The Kingdom

by APT Entertainment, MZET TV Productions, Mquest Ventures

Genre: Action / Family Drama

Cast: Vic Sotto, Piolo Pascual

Writer: Michelle Ngu-Nario

Director: Michael Tuviera

The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) celebrated the start of its golden jubilee last July 16, 2024, with a grand launch of its 50th edition under the theme 'Sine-Sigla sa Singkwenta'.

This special event highlighted MMFF's significant contributions to the local film and entertainment industry, as well as its role in bolstering the country's creative economy by generating jobs for Filipinos.

First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, a staunch supporter of Philippine arts and culture, graced the occasion with her presence. She praised the MMFF as a beacon of Filipino creativity and talent for five decades, highlighting its significant influence on the nation's artistic spirit.

Leading the ceremonies was MMFF and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

(MMDA) Chair, Atty. Romando Artes. He emphasized the significant support for the film industry, stating, "Nais kong banggitin na simula 2016, ang mga amusement taxes na nai-waive ng mga LGUs para sa MMFF ay 100 porsyento nang inilaan sa ating mga benepisyaryo, tulad ng Movie Workers Welfare Fund (MOWELFUND), Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), Motion Picture Anti-Film Piracy Council, Optical Media Board (OMB), at Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) - isang pagkilala sa kanilang napakahalagang kontribusyon sa industriya. Ito ay nagpapakita ng ating suporta sa ating massipag na manggagawa sa pelikula, na nagpapahintulot sa kanila na ipagpatuloy ang kanilang gawain sa larangan ng paggawa ng pelikula."

A commemorative video showcased five decades of MMFF's impact on Philippine cinema, culminating in the reveal of the 50th-anniversary logo. This visual tribute underscored the festival's legacy and its contributions to the film industry. Hosts Jake Ejercito and Isabelle Daza kept the audience engaged as they unveiled a series of monthly activities planned to commemorate this milestone anniversary-

August: Launch of a special MMFF classic posters mural in partnership with i-Academy.

September: 'Sine-Singkwenta', featuring 50 selected Filipino movies shown in theaters for only P50.

October: Regional launch of MMFF50, including the MMFF50 Student Film Caravan at Universidad de Manila in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines

(FDCP). This event will feature a two-day masterclass on directing, acting, cinematography, and scriptwriting for 100 senior high school and college students.

Additionally, there will be a celebrity golf tournament and an MMFF50 Masterclass with international Filipino screenwriters, producers, and animators.

December: The annual MMFF50 parade on December 15, the Movie Premiere week from December 15 to December 20, MMFF Sponsors Night on December 21, and the highly anticipated MMFF50 Gabi ng Parangal on December 27. To commemorate this event, MMFF will present a customized trophy for the Gabi ng Parangal, crafted by renowned Filipino artist Jefre.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna also expressed her support, highlighting MMFF's role in the city's cultural and economic landscape. She noted that the MMFF has been a vital part of Manila's cultural and economic scene, fostering both artistic talent and community spirit. Mayor Lacuna emphasized that the city is proud to support an event that enriches its cultural heritage and provides jobs and inspiration for its people.

One of the celebration's highlights was the reveal of the first five official movie entries for

MMFF50, generating excitement among attendees and setting the stage for a vibrant festival season.

In September 1975, former President Ferdinand Marcos expanded its scope to include the greater Manila area, renaming it the 'Metropolitan Film Festival. Today, the MMFF is an annual event organized by the MMDA and held nationwide, running from Christmas Day through New Year's Day and into the first weekend of January, focusing exclusively on Filipino-produced films.

MMFF announced the first 4 official entries to 49th MMFF on December 2023

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The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) announced on Monday, July 10, the first four officials entries for its December edition this year.

MMDA chairman Don Artes, who also serves as concurrent MMFF chairperson, said the four films were chosen by a committee headed by Jesse Ejercito whom he described as a respected producer and industry stalwart of the film industry.

The four officials entries were 

• “A Mother and Son's Story” which is produced by Cineko Productions and starred by Sharon Cuneta and Alden Richards;

• “(K)AMPON” starring Beauty Gonzales and Derek Ramsay under Quantum Films; 

• “Penduko” by Sari Sari Network with Cristine Reyes and Matteo Guidicelli as lead actors; 

• “Rewind” under ABS-CBN Film Productions starred by Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes.

"I thank the members of the MMFF Selection Committee for dedicating their time and effort in the thorough deliberation and selection process to choosing the initial set of quality films that moviegoers will surely love," said Artes.

Artes said the remaining four official entries to complete the MMFF 2023 will come from finished film submissions.

The deadline for the finished film submission is on September 29.

The 49th MMFF is set to run in December 2023 until January 2024

MMFF Parade of Stars Set in QC, Brings on New Partners to Promote Entries

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'Tis the season to be merry, for the much-awaited Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) is coming into full swing.

With this year's theme, "Balik Saya ang MMFF 2022," the 48th edition of the film festival is bringing on new partners to make the event more thrilling for film makers and moviegoers.

This year’s Parade of Stars, which signals the official start of the festival, will be hosted by the local government of Quezon City. The parade, featuring floats carrying celebrities of the film festival’s entries, will start from Welcome Rotonda-Quezon Avenue to Quezon Memorial Circle at 2pm of December 21.

The parade will run for seven kilometers, with an estimated travel time of two hours and 30 minutes.

Staging area for the floats of eight official entries and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be along E. Rodriguez to D. Tuazon. The agency’s traffic enforcers will assist on the sidelines of the parade route for crowd control.

Meanwhile, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) announced it will be providing funds worth P500,000 to help in marketing the films through CreatePHFilms, for each film producer whose entries made it to the MMFF 2022.

The FDCP’s CreatePHFilms Funding Program is designed to provide support to filmmakers, producers, and distributors in all stages of filmmaking to complement their efforts to produce quality Filipino films.

The MMFF also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with BingoPlus, an online bingo game platform, to be the film festival presenter.

“This year’s festival promises an exciting selection of films for all moviegoers. It offers a wide variety of genres that will complete the tradition of Filipinos going to the cinemas during the holiday season," said Atty. Romando Artes, MMDA and MMFF Over-all Chairman during a meeting with the film producers, marketing team, and the parade committee held yesterday.

The official eight entries to the MMFF 2022 are: "Deleter" by Viva Communications, Inc.; "Family Matters" by Cineko Productions, Inc.; "Mamasapano: Now It Can Be Told" by Borracho Film Production; "My Father, Myself" by 3:16 Media Network and Mentorque Productions; "Nanahimik ang Gabi" by Rein Entertainment Productions; "Partners in Crime" by ABS-CBN Film Productions; “Labyu with an Accent” by ABS-CBN Film Productions and "My Teacher" by TEN17P.

The 48th MMFF will run in theaters nationwide from December 25, 2022 until January 7, 2023.

The Gabi ng Parangal (Awards Night) is set on December 27 at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City.

MMFF 2020 stars invite OFWs to watch this year’s films online

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The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) festival organizers held a “MMFF Zoom Roadshow” with Pinoy celebrities to invite Filipinos from all over the world to watch this year’s line-up of top calibre films. 

Celebrities Zanjoe Marudo, Charlie Dizon, Keann Johnson, Andrew E, Ritz Azul, Senator Jinggoy Estrada, Julia Estrada, Fumiya and Yamyam kicked off the online roadshow together with PCOO (Presidential Communications Operations Office) Director Pebbles Duque who hosted the online event. OFWs from Hawaii, the UK, Australia, UAE, Germany, Japan, Netherlands, Italy, USA, Trinidad and Tobago, and Hong Kong showed their support and were pleased to meet and greet the celebrity guests. The participants were also given a short demo on how to watch the MMFF films via UPSTREAM, the newest transactional video-on-demand (VOD) platform, and GMovies.

“A lot of Filipinos, OFWs most especially, will be postponing their homecoming due to the pandemic. While they will miss out on much of the traditional festivities back home, we want to bring them cheer by allowing them to enjoy this year’s MMFF anywhere in the world. Wherever they may be, Filipino Christmas continues to be felt with the MMFF,” said Director Duque.

“We are grateful to MMFF for allowing us to recreate this well-loved Christmas tradition of enjoying the MMFF films, especially for the OFWs who will be missing home this season. These films that deeply reflect Filipino values and culture can now be enjoyed online, anywhere in the world,” said Albert de Larrazabal, Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer. 

The 46th edition of the MMFF via UPSTREAM and in partnership with GMovies opens on Christmas Day, December 25, 2020 until January 7, 2021. 

This year, the MMFF has 10 official entries, a shift from the usual eight entries in the previous years. The titles cover a wider range of audiences especially now that the festival has moved online:

Joel Lamangan’s “Isa Pang Bahaghari” is an LGBTQ-themed family drama about an OFW (Phillip Salvador) returning home to reconnect with his estranged wife (Nora Aunor) and children (Zanjoe Marudo, Joseph Marco and Sanya Lopez). 

Another LGBTQ-themed film in the roster is “The Boy Foretold by The Stars” produced by Clever Minds, Inc. starring Adrian Lindayag and Keann Johnson, who portray high school classmates whose friendship is tested when their feelings towards each other evolve. 

For those who enjoy a good scare, Easy Ferrer’s “The Missing” is set in a haunted house in Japan. Produced by Regal Entertainment, the film features Joseph Marco, Ritz Azul and Miles Ocampo.

“Mang Kepweng: Ang Lihim ng Bandang Itim” is another horror film but with a bit of comedy. Produced by Cineko Productions and directed by Topel Lee, the film stars Vhong Navarro, Ritz Azul, Benjie Paras, Joross Gamboa, Ryan Bang and Ion Perez. 

A staple in the holiday film genre is comedy and Al Tantay’s “Pakboys: Takusa” aims to make Pinoys laugh. Produced by Viva Entertainment, the film focuses on the infidelity of comedians Andrew E., Janno Gibbs, Dennis Padilla and Jerald Napoles. 

If visual effects are what some are looking for, Christian Acuña’s fantasy-adventure, “Magikland”, is expected to appeal to young audiences. Produced by Peque Gallaga, Lore Reyes, and Brightlight Leisure Productions, the film features a young cast including Miggs Cuaderno, Elijah Alejo, Joshua Eugenio and Princess Aguilar.

Pinoys can also expect a bit of romance with Mac Alejandre’s “Tagpuan”. This movie features a love triangle starring Iza Calzado, Alfred Vargas and Shaina Magdayao. Written by Ricky Lee and shot in Hong Kong and New York, the film is produced by Alternative Vision Cinema.

Those who enjoy true stories might like “Suarez, The Healing Priest.” Directed by Joven Tan, the film is based on the life of Father Fernando Suarez. Produced by Saranggola Media Productions, the film stars John Arcilla, Dante Rivero, and Jin Macapagal.

Fresh from glowing reviews from its Japan and Estonia premieres, “Fan Girl”, the latest film from Antoinette Jadaone is about every fan girl’s fantasy of spending a night with their biggest celebrity idol. This was produced by ABS-CBN Films' Black Sheep, Globe Studios, Project 8, Epicmedia, and Crossword Productions with performances from newcomer Charlie Dizon and award-winning actor Paulo Avelino, who plays himself.

Lastly, OFWs are well-represented by Adolfo Alix, Jr’s’ “Coming Home.” Produced by Maverick Films, this is a drama about an OFW father(Jinggoy Estrada) who comes home to his unwelcoming family. The film also features Sylvia Sanchez, Edgar Allan Guzman, Martin del Rosario, Shaira Diaz, Vin Abrenica, Julian Estrada, and Jake Ejercito.

Through a partnership with UPSTREAM and Globe’s GMovies, the MMFF is bringing this year’s festival online as the official entries can be streamed by Filipinos via UPSTREAM in partnership with GMovies for only P250 per title, and $10 for Filipinos abroad. 

UPSTREAM is likewise able to deliver a better viewing experience for customers while protecting the content creators’ intellectual property rights with the support of Globe’s #PlayItRight campaign. #PlayItRight is the telco company’s anti-piracy advocacy that helps protect the entertainment industry from illegal streaming and content piracy.

Tickets will be on sale locally on December 7 and internationally on December 18. Visit UPSTREAM.ph to know how to enjoy the MMFF online.

Magic 8 Finalists of SUMMER MMFF 2020

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On Monday, the Metro Manila Film Festival announced the official entries to the summer edition of the MMFF 2020.

Of the 24 films submitted, eight movies made it to first-ever summer edition of the MMFF, which will take place from April 11 to 21 in cinemas nationwide. 

Here's the Magic 8 Finalists of SUMMER MMFF 2020 (Year 1)

1. "ISA PANG BAHAGHARI" (Heaven’s Best Entertainment) -- family drama by Joel Lamangan, starring superstar Nora Aunor, Phillip Salvador, Michael De Mesa, Zanjoe Marudo, Joseph Marco, and Sanya Lopez.

2. "A HARD DAY" (Viva Films) -- Pinoy adaptation of the Korean action hit movie of the same title, by Law Fajardo, topbilled by Dingdong Dantes and John Arcilla, with Janno Gibbs, Al Tantay, and Meg Imperial.

3. "THE MISSING" (Regal Entertainment) -- horror flick by Easy Ferrer, starring Joseph Marco, Ritz Azul, and Miles Ocampo with Japanese actors.

4. "LOVE THE WAY U LIE" (TEN17p Films) -- romantic comedy flick by RC Delos Reyes, bida sina Alex Gonzaga, Xian Lim, Kylie Versoza.

5. "LOVE OR MONEY" (Star Cinema) -- romantic comedy by Mae Cruz Alviar -- tampok sina Angelica Panganiban at Coco Martin.

6. "COMING HOME" (Maverick Films, line produced by ALV Films) -- family drama by Adolfo Borinaga Alix Jr. na tampok sina Jinggoy Estrada, Sylvia Sanchez, Martin Del Rosario, Ara Arida, and Edgar Allan Guzman.

7. "NGAYON KAYA" (T-Rex Entertainment) -- romance film by Prime Cruz, starring Paulo Avelino and Janine Gutierrez.

8. "TAGPUAN" (Alternative Vision Cinema) -- romance film by Mac Alejandre, starring Alfred Vargas, Iza Calzado, and Shaina Magdayao.

The new festival happens April 11  until April 21 in cinemas nationwide.

Winners of the MMFF 2017 Gabi ng Parangal, "Ang Larawan" won Best Picture

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"Ang Larawan" won Best Picture at this year's Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal on Wednesday, December 27 held at the Kia Theatre.

Derek Ramsay won the Best Actor award for the movie All of You, while Joana Ampil won the Best Actress for the movie Ang Larawan.

Paul Soriano won Best Director for the movie Siargao.

Here are the winners from Wednesday's Metro Manila Film Festival 2017 awards night: 

Best Picture - ANG LARAWAN

2nd Best Picture - SIARGAO

3rd Best Picture - ALL OF YOU

Best Actress - Joana Ampil, Ang Larawan

Best Actor - Derek Ramsey, All of You

Best Supporting Actress - Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Siargao

Best Supporting Actor - Edgar Allan Guzman, Deadma Walking

Best Director - Paul Soriano, Siargao

Special Jury Prize - Nick Joaquin, Ang Larawan

People's Choice Award - The Revenger Squad

Gatpuno Antonio J. Villegas Cultural Award - Ang Larawan

FPJ Memorial Award - Ang Panday

Children's Choice - Ang Panday

Best Child Performance - Baste, Meant to Beh

Best Screenplay - All of You

Best Cinematography - Siargao

Best Editing - Siargao

Best Production Design - Ang Larawan

Best Musical Score - Ang Larawan

Best Visual Effects - Ang Panday

Best Original Theme Song - Siargao

Best Sound - Siargao

Best Float - Deadma Walking

Best Short Film - "Anong Nangyari kay Nicanor Dante"

People's Choice Award (Short Films) - "Noel"

Star of the Night (Female) - Erich Gonzales

Star of the Night (Male) - Derek Ramsay