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Cinemalaya sails to bigger and better shores with new venue partners this October
Get ready for a new wave of cinema: Cinemalaya is heading to bigger and better shores with new venue partners this October.
For its 21st edition, Cinemalaya, the country’s pioneering independent film festival, returns to captivate audiences with the theme “Layag: sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos” (Sail: Through Waves, Wind, and Storms). True to its tradition, Cinemalaya transforms the big screen into a vivid canvas that mirrors the courageous and relentless spirit of Filipino stories. This year’s festival showcases a diverse slate of ten powerful full-length films and ten compelling short films, each chosen for its unique perspectives and storytelling prowess. Moviegoers can immerse themselves in these outstanding entries from October 3 to October 12, with screenings held across three prestigious venues: Shangri-La Plaza, Ayala Malls Cinemas, and Gateway Cineplex 18. This celebration of Filipino cinema promises not only entertainment but also inspiration, inviting viewers to embark on a journey through stories that navigate life’s challenges with hope, determination, and artistry.
Since its inception in 2005, Cinemalaya has traditionally been staged within the elegant theaters of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), a venue long regarded as an iconic home for Filipino arts and cinema. However, ongoing rehabilitation and restoration efforts at the CCP have prompted the festival to expand to new spaces to ensure the continuation of its mission: discovering, nurturing, and celebrating the talents of both emerging and distinguished Filipino filmmakers. These artists are recognized for their courageous storytelling and inventive interpretations of the diverse Philippine experience, often bringing fresh insight and artistic integrity to the screen.
For the first time this year, the lively and cosmopolitan Shangri-La Plaza will become the central hub of the Cinemalaya Film Festival, hosting the majority of its much-anticipated screenings and events. This marks a significant expansion from its previously established partnership with Ayala Malls Cinemas, as Cinemalaya will also present a select lineup at the state-of-the-art Gateway Cineplex 18. This adapted, multi-venue setup promises a broader audience reach and a dynamic new atmosphere while upholding the festival’s enduring commitment to showcasing groundbreaking Filipino films.
“We are excited to serve as a flagship venue for Cinemalaya’s 21st edition as it reflects our commitment to cultivating local film and cultural expression. As part of our Culture in Focus program, this marks the beginning of our partnership with Cinemalaya in bringing fresh and daring stories to our screens,” said Arrianne M. Nadurata, Senior Retail Marketing Manager of Shangri-La Plaza Corporation.
Ayala Malls Cinemas, a dedicated and longstanding partner of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and Cinemalaya for over twenty years, recently reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Philippine film industry. “Ayala Malls Cinemas is immensely proud to uphold its collaborative partnership with both the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the Cinemalaya Foundation. For us, our cinemas have served as a nurturing space where Filipino creativity and artistry can shine on the big screen. This enduring alliance is a testament to our collective mission to amplify the unique voices of talented Filipino filmmakers and to honor the diverse narratives that define our cinematic heritage. As Cinemalaya 21 unfolds, we are deeply honored to transform our cinemas into vibrant cultural hubs, showcasing these powerful stories. Through this festival, we hope to unite audiences in a timeless celebration that elevates local culture, fosters creative expression, and strengthens community bonds,” expressed Yvette Roldan, Head of Ancillary Business and Cinemas at Ayala Malls.
“As a new venue partner of Cinemalaya, Gateway Cineplex 18 is committed to amplifying the unique and bold voices of independent filmmakers across the country. It’s an honor to host these important films within our theaters,” said Irene L. Jose, Chief Operating Officer of Uniprom, Inc.
With these expanded venues, Cinemalaya 21 will not only unite some of the Philippines’ most iconic and beloved cinemas, but also opens numerous opportunities for film enthusiasts and passionate moviegoers to dive into the vibrant world of Filipino cinema. This exciting development is a testament to the festival’s visible and lasting commitment to championing Filipino independent filmmaking, bringing exceptional works even closer to the hearts and minds of a diverse audience.
For over twenty years, Cinemalaya has been a guiding force and reliable vessel for filmmakers, empowering them to chart new territories through stories steeped in truth, cultural identity, hardship, and hope. By offering a dedicated stage to illuminate the unique voices and perspectives from communities across the archipelago, Cinemalaya celebrates the artistic spirit and resilience at the heart of Filipino storytelling.
As the festival sails into new chapters and adapts to the constantly changing landscape of Philippine cinema, it stands unwavering in its mission—pushing forward and prevailing through every challenge and storm.
Be part of this captivating cinematic journey. Experience the inspiring and uniquely Filipino narratives unfold on the big screen, from October 3 to October 12, 2025, at the picturesque Shangri-La Plaza, the bustling Ayala Malls Cinemas, and the modern Gateway Cineplex 18.
For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.
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Cinemalaya sails to bigger and better shores with new venue partners this October
Melo Villareal
Out of Town Blog
