There’s something encouraging about seeing a cinema lobby fill up for a Filipino film. At this year’s Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival, long lines, packed theaters, and sold-out screenings have become part of the opening-week experience as audiences turn out for the festival’s biggest edition yet.
With original Filipino films taking over participating cinemas, moviegoers have been showing that there is still a place for homegrown stories on the big screen.
Filipino Stories, Filipino Audiences
The turnout comes at a time when Philippine cinema continues to be part of a larger conversation about audiences, local films, and the challenges facing the industry.
For Puregold CinePanalo Festival Director Chris Cahilig, the festival’s opening-week response offers one indication of what audiences are looking for.
“This year, Pinoy cinema has been the subject of much debate and discourse,” said Cahilig. “However, the success of our first day of screenings makes things incredibly clear: there remains a strong appetite for Filipino stories told by Filipino voices.”
That appetite was already visible before opening day, with moviegoers lining up at cinemas and purchasing tickets ahead of screenings. Festival passes also drew cinephiles to Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma, giving them access to the festival’s full-length features and student short-film lineup.
Stories That Filled the Seats
By opening day, several screenings had already sold out.
Among the films attracting audiences are Apol of My Ai, a coming-of-age story; Patay Gutom and Multwoh (Patay na Patay sa ’Yo), which explore supernatural and queer themes; and Stuck on You, a romantic comedy with a deadly twist.
The excitement has also moved online, with moviegoers sharing sold-out schedules and available screening times on social media. Several screenings for the following weekend have likewise already reached capacity, particularly late-afternoon and evening shows.
More Than a Movie Ticket
The festival experience extends beyond what happens inside the theater. Attendees can also bring home souvenirs and giveaways, including grocery bags, custom totes, pins, and personalized souvenir receipts.
“Puregold CinePanalo is our treat to both artists and fans of cinema,” said Cahilig. “While we continue to uplift the stories of local filmmakers, we also strive to create memorable experiences for those who come to support these films.”
Catch the Festival
The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026 runs until October 4, featuring seven full-length films and 19 original student shorts at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Ayala Malls Circuit, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and Market! Market!
Regular tickets are priced at ₱250, while discounted tickets are ₱200 for PWDs, senior citizens, students, national athletes, and Aling Puring and Puregold Perks cardholders.
For those who want to experience the festival in full, a ₱2,000 festival pass is also available at Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma and can be used at participating venues.
With audiences already filling theaters and sharing their CinePanalo experiences online, this year’s festival is proving that sometimes, supporting Filipino cinema starts with something as simple as showing up—and staying for the story.
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