National Cinema Day celebrated the moviegoers who continue to support the big-screen experience
Photo credit: Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines
September 12, 2026 marked a historic day for Philippine cinema as the country celebrated its first-ever National Cinema Day (NCD), bringing moviegoers across the nation back to theaters and proving that the shared experience of watching films on the big screen remains very much alive.
More than simply a day of discounted tickets, NCD was CEAP’s way of giving back to the audiences at the heart of the local cinema industry, moviegoers who continue to choose the big screen, support theatrical releases, and make the shared experience of going to the movies possible. At its core, National Cinema Day was a celebration of cinema itself and the enduring, unparalleled appeal of the big-screen experience.
Spearheaded by the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP), “National Cinema Day” brought together more than 100 participating cinemas nationwide, and CEAP extends its sincere appreciation to its government and industry partners, including the Film Academy of the Philippines (FAP), Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) through the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), whose support contributed significantly to the success of the initiative.
Photo credit: Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines
For just ₱100 audiences were given the opportunity to watch films on the big screen, including current releases as well as selected previous and re-run titles. More than simply offering affordable moviegoing, NCD encouraged Filipinos to return to cinemas, reconnect with family and friends, and rediscover the joy of experiencing stories together in the cinemas.
A Strong Comeback for Filipinos, Proving That Cinema Lives On
The strong turnout and engagement throughout the day served as an encouraging reminder of the continuing place of cinemas in Filipino entertainment and culture. It served as a proof that audiences continue to value the experience of watching films with others, from the anticipation before the movie begins to the laughter, excitement, and emotions shared inside the theater.
Photo credit: Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines
“The incredible response to National Cinema Day shows that cinema remains a vital part of Filipino culture. Seeing packed theaters, families and friends enjoying films together, and audiences embracing the big-screen experience reaffirmed the enduring appeal of moviegoing. We are grateful to everyone who helped make this event a success, and CEAP remains committed to developing more initiatives that support our industry and enrich the moviegoing experience,” said Ms. Irene Jose, President of the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP).
The celebration comes at an important time for the theatrical industry, which took a significant blow during the COVID-19 pandemic while also navigating the rapid growth and changing landscape of streaming services. “National Cinema Day” served as a powerful reminder that cinema is still very much alive, and that Filipinos are willing to come together to support the films and the people behind them.
The initiative also highlighted the importance of collaboration across the film industry. The success of NCD was made possible through the collective support of cinema exhibitors, producers, distributors, government agencies, artists, media organizations, content creators, and other industry partners.
Photo credit: Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines
Among those who showed their support for the celebration was actress Anne Curtis, Bella Padilla, Barbie Forteza, Karylle, Sassa Gurl, Michael Sager, Anton Vinzon, Mon Confiado, with other artists and cinema advocates who encouraged Filipinos to take part in “National Cinema Day.” On the day, Bella Padilla joined moviegoers at different cinemas to show her support for the nationwide initiative.
More Than a Celebration of Movies
“National Cinema Day” was more than just a celebration of movies. It was a celebration of the people who make cinema possible, the audiences who keep it alive, and the shared experiences that can only happen in a theater.
Photo credit: Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines
With its strong public response, the inaugural celebration opens the door for more opportunities to bring audiences back to theaters and create new ways to celebrate the country's love for movies.
May this celebration be the beginning of more moments that remind us why there is nothing quite like watching a film in a theater, with a community, and on the big screen.
Here’s to more National Cinema Day!
As the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) put it,
“Together, we celebrated cinema. Together, we strengthened the future of moviegoing in the Philippines.”
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment