The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) is gearing up for its 51st edition with a diverse and star-studded roster of eight official entries. This year’s selection showcases a mix of drama, comedy, horror, and action—highlighting the continued breadth of Filipino storytelling.
Leading the festival slate are “Call Me Mother,” “Rekonek,” “Manila’s Finest,” “Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins,” “I’m Perfect,” “Love You So Bad,” “Unmarry,” and “Bar Boys: After School.”
Each film brings its own charm: from fresh narratives and ensemble casts to franchise favorites like Shake, Rattle & Roll, which returns with a chilling new chapter. With genres targeting a wide audience, MMFF organizers say the 2025 lineup reflects the industry’s renewed push for both creativity and commercial appeal. The official entries will premiere nationwide on December 25, in keeping with the festival’s annual Christmas tradition.
Makati City to Host the Parade of the Stars for the First Time
Before the films hit cinemas, fans will get an early celebration as the Parade of the Stars rolls out on December 19—and for the first time ever, the spectacle will take place in Makati City.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that float assembly begins at World Trade Center along Macapagal Boulevard at 1 p.m. From there, the grand procession will pass through Makati’s major roads: Buendia Avenue, Ayala Avenue, Makati Avenue, JP Rizal Street, and A. Reyes Avenue, before concluding at Circuit Makati.
The 8.4-kilometer route is estimated to take one hour and 40 minutes, with a post-parade program featuring performances and fan interactions. Motorists are urged to plan alternative routes, as heavy traffic is expected across the parade path.
A Festival Aimed at Revitalizing Philippine Cinema
MMDA Chairman and MMFF Overall Chair Atty. Don Artes said this year’s festival marks “a new era” for Philippine cinema. Hosting the parade in a major business and lifestyle hub like Makati, he noted, allows the MMFF to reach wider audiences and showcase the industry’s resilience.
The festival will also hold its Gabi ng Parangal on December 27, with the venue to be announced.
MMFF proceeds will once again support industry institutions such as Mowelfund, the Film Academy of the Philippines, the Optical Media Board, and the Film Development Council of the Philippines, ensuring continued support for Filipino filmmakers and workers.
