Crowds have been pouring into participating cinemas to catch the latest batch of original Filipino films produced for Puregold CinePanalo.
Puregold CinePanalo 2026 Draws Strong Crowds as Filipino Films Sell Out Across Metro Manila | MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Filipino moviegoers are turning out in strong numbers for the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026, with packed cinemas, long queues, and sold-out screenings marking the festival’s opening days across Metro Manila.
Now in its biggest edition yet, the festival brings together seven original full-length Filipino films and 19 student short films, giving audiences an opportunity to discover stories created by Filipino filmmakers and emerging student artists.
The strong opening-week turnout comes amid continuing conversations about the current state and future of Philippine cinema. For Puregold CinePanalo Festival Director Chris Cahilig, the early response demonstrates continued audience interest in locally produced stories.
Festivalgoers have also been walking away with souvenirs and giveaways, including grocery bags, custom totes, pins and personalized souvenir receipts.
“This year, Pinoy cinema has been the subject of much debate and discourse. 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,” Cahilig said.
“Puregold CinePanalo has always been proud to uplift the stories of our local artists,” he added.
Audiences Line Up for Original Filipino Stories
Interest in this year’s festival was already evident before opening day, with moviegoers reportedly lining up at participating cinemas ahead of the first screenings to secure tickets.
Festival passes also drew interest from cinephiles looking to experience the complete lineup, with passes available at Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma.
By opening day, several screenings had already reached full capacity.
Among the titles attracting audiences are the coming-of-age film “Apol of My Ai,” supernatural queer films “Patay Gutom” and “Multwoh (Patay na Patay sa ’Yo),” and the romantic comedy “Stuck on You,” which puts an unconventional and deadly spin on the genre.
The festival’s momentum has also extended to social media, where moviegoers have been sharing updates about sold-out screenings and available schedules, helping fellow festivalgoers plan their cinema visits.
Romantic comedy “Stuck on You” was one of several films to have sold out screenings in the first days of the festival.
Demand Continues Into the Weekend
The strong attendance has continued beyond opening day, with multiple screenings scheduled for the following weekend already reported as sold out.
Late-afternoon and evening screenings of the seven full-length CinePanalo films have been particularly sought after, reflecting sustained interest among audiences looking to experience the festival lineup in cinemas.
Festivalgoers were also treated to giveaways to further elevate the excitement of their cinema experience.
For festivalgoers, the experience also extends beyond the films. Attendees can receive various souvenirs and festival giveaways, including grocery bags, custom totes, pins, and personalized souvenir receipts.
“Puregold CinePanalo is our treat to both artists and fans of cinema,” Cahilig said. “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.”
“Attendees will leave with great stories in their hearts and minds, along with giveaways to serve as mementos of the experience,” he added.
Catch the Puregold CinePanalo Films Until October 4
The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026 continues until October 4, with screenings at selected cinemas across Metro Manila.
Participating venues are:
- Gateway Cineplex 18
- TriNoma
- Fairview Terraces
- Ayala Malls Feliz
- Ayala Malls Circuit
- Ayala Malls Manila Bay
- Market! Market!
Regular admission is ₱250, while discounted tickets are priced at ₱200. Discounted rates are available to persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, students, national athletes, and Aling Puring and Puregold Perks cardholders.
For moviegoers who want to experience more of the festival, a ₱2,000 festival pass is also available. Festival passes may be purchased at Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma and can be used at participating festival venues.
With its lineup of original Filipino films, student shorts, cinema experiences, and audience activities, Puregold CinePanalo 2026 continues to provide a platform for Filipino filmmakers while inviting audiences to celebrate local storytelling on the big screen.
Puregold CinePanalo 2026 Sponsors
The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival 2026 is sponsored by Alaska, Angel, Argentina, Ariel, Bingo, Birch Tree Fortified, Bear Brand, C2, Century Tuna, Champion, Chuckie, Coca-Cola, Colgate, Cream Silk, Datu Puti, Downy, GoodNom Fresh, Great Taste, Del Monte, Jack ’N Jill, Knorr, Lucky Me!, Maggi, Magnolia Real Mayonnaise, Milo, Monde, MY San, Nestea, Nissin, Nivea, Palmolive Naturals, Pantene, Purefoods, Rebisco, Royal, Safeguard, Sprite, Surf, Wilkins, and Zonrox.
