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2026 Cinemalaya Delves on Reel Reflections of Filipino Lives


“Stories have a way of revealing what lies beneath the surface. In its 22nd edition, Cinemalaya celebrates films that emerge from reflection—bringing forth voices, perspectives, and experiences that deepen our understanding of ourselves and one another. Join us as stories open new landscapes – revealing the beauty, complexity, and humanity that connect us all.”

For 22 years, the Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival has championed fearless storytelling and nurtured generations of Filipino filmmakers whose works challenge, inspire, and provoke meaningful conversations. This year, the country’s premier independent film festival returns with a longer run, from August 6 to 18, inviting audiences to embark on a journey of introspection through films that illuminate the many facets of the human condition.


Leading this year’s competition are nine (9) full-length and ten (10) short films that offer distinct yet interconnected reflections on identity, family, memory, resilience, justice, love, and the complexities of contemporary life.

Competing for the coveted Balanghai Trophy in the Full-Length Category are: 


The nine full-length films are:

1. "A.ni.mál" by Dustin Celestino 

2. "2 Valid IDs" by Ma-an Asuncion-Dagñalan and Abet Pagdagdagan Raz 

3. "Ganggang" by JL Burgos 

4. "Hand of God" by Mark Duane Angos

5. "Mag-iina" by Giancarlo Abrahan and Guelan Luarca 

6. "Kaka sa Yawan" by Alpha Habon 

7.  "Status: Rejected" by Vahn Leinard Pascual 

8. "Tayo Lang ang Nakakaalam" by David Corpuz 

9. "Tirik" by May-i Guia Padilla.


Meanwhile, the 10 short films are:

1. "Elenita Elene Elaine" by Gabriela Serrano

2. "Honey, My Love, So Sweet" by JT Trinidad

3. "Hoy, Hoy, Ingat!" by Norvin de los Santos

4. "Kung Paano Kakalas" by Joseph Vitali

5. "Para-paraan" by Mae Chan Li

6. "Runo!" by Lysa Catolico and Jazmine Gin Pateña

7. "Silkscreen" by Rey Anthony Villaverde

8. "Sorbetes" by Jennissie Gilbuena

9. "The Keeper" by Nolan Rae Fabular and TRNZ

10. "The River Flows in Different Places" by Lot-lot Hermosura


The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the Cinemalaya Foundation, Inc. bring the festival once again to Red Carpet Cinemas at Shangri-La Plaza as its primary venue while Ayala Malls remains a partner. Gateway Cineplex also returns this year, completing the roster of venues, widening the festival’s reach and allowing even more audiences to experience the richness and diversity of contemporary Philippine independent cinema.


Running concurrently with the festival is the 38th Gawad CCP Para sa Alternatibong Pelikula at Video, the Southeast Asia’s longest-running independent film competition. Showcasing works across Short Feature/Narrative, Experimental, Documentary, and Animation, the competition continues to champion alternative forms of cinema and provide emerging filmmakers with a platform to push creative boundaries.


To stay updated, follow the official social media accounts:

cinemalayaoffcl on X (Twitter)

cinemalayaofficial on Instagram

CinemalayaOfficial on Facebook

Cinemalaya on Youtube





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