For the 21st edition of Cinemalaya, the pioneering independent film festival returns with the theme “Layag: sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos”, turning the big screen into a reflection of brave and persevering Filipino stories. Ten full-length films and ten short film entries are set for screening from October 3 to October 12 in three partner venues: Shangri-La Plaza, Ayala Malls Cinemas, and Gateway Cineplex 18.
Since its inception in 2005, the Cinemalaya is traditionally held in the theaters of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP). The ongoing rehabilitation at the Center has led to the festival finding new venues to continue its tradition of discovering, encouraging, and supporting the cinematic works of upcoming and veteran Filipino filmmakers who boldly articulate and freely interpret the Philippine experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity.
This year, Shangri-La Plaza will serve as the main hub of the festival for the first time. In addition to its long-standing partnership with Ayala Malls Cinemas, Cinemalaya will now also hold screenings at Gateway Cineplex 18 throughout the festival period.
“We are excited to serve as a flagship venue for Cinemalaya’s 21st edition as it reflects our commitment to cultivating local film and cultural expression. As part of our Culture in Focus program, this marks the beginning of our partnership with Cinemalaya in bringing fresh and daring stories to our screens,” said Arrianne M. Nadurata, Senior Retail Marketing Manager of Shangri-La Plaza Corporation.
Ayala Malls Cinemas, a steadfast partner of the CCP and Cinemalaya for over two decades, reaffirmed its commitment to Philippine cinema. “Ayala Malls Cinemas is proud to continue its partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines and Cinemalaya, serving as a home for Filipino artistry on the big screen. This enduring collaboration reflects our shared dedication to championing the voices of visionary Filipino filmmakers and celebrating the boundless spirit of local cinema. As Cinemalaya 21 unfolds, we are honored to showcase these powerful stories, uniting audiences in a timeless celebration of culture, creativity, and community,” said Yvette Roldan, Head of Ancillary Business and the Cinemas.
“As a new venue partner of Cinemalaya, Gateway Cineplex 18 is committed to amplifying the unique and bold voices of independent filmmakers across the country. It’s an honor to host these important films within our theaters,” said Irene L. Jose, Chief Operating Officer of Uniprom, Inc.
With these additional venues, Cinemalaya 21 will not only bridge some of the most prominent local cinemas together, but it also opens more doors for film lovers and avid cinema goers to experience the thriving industry of Filipino cinema. This move reflects the festival’s enduring dedication to bringing the best of Filipino independent filmmaking even closer to the hearts of its audiences.
For over two decades, Cinemalaya has served as both compass and vessel for filmmakers who sail their stories of truth, identity, struggle, and hope, to spotlight the voices of their community. As Cinemalaya continues to navigate the evolving tides of Filipino cinema, it promises to persist and endure amidst the strongest of unos.
Witness unique Filipino narratives come to life from October 3 to October 12, 2025, at the Shangri-La Plaza, Ayala Malls Cinemas, and Gateway Cineplex 18.
For more information, visit the CCP website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) and the Cinemalaya website (www.cinemalaya.org). Follow the official CCP and Cinemalaya Facebook pages and other social media accounts on X, Instagram, and TikTok.
