Manila: Two more venues will showcase the independent film festival Cinemalaya from Oct. 3 to 12, the Cultural Center of the Philippines announced on Tuesday. Shangri-La Plaza will serve as the main hub of the festival for the first time.
According to Philippines News Agency, ten full-length films and 10 short film entries will also be screened at Gateway Cineplex 18, as well as the Ayala Malls Cinemas, which has been Cinemalaya’s partner for over two decades. Cinemalaya’s 21st edition carries the theme, ‘Layag: sa Alon, Hangin, at Unos’, a reflection of brave and persevering Filipino stories.
“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,” Arrianne Nadurata, senior retail marketing manager of Shangri-La Plaza Corporation, was quoted as saying in a news release.
Ayala Malls Cinemas 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,” Yvette Roldan, head of Ancillary Business and the Cinemas, said.
Since its inception in 2005, the Cinemalaya has been traditionally held in the CCP theaters. However, 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.