CinePanalo 2026 draws crowds as some screenings sell out

The 2026 Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival (CPFF), a showcase of homegrown, Filipino cinema, has been drawing big crowds in its first week, with some screenings selling out within the first few days.

Long lines and crowded cinema lobbies greet moviegoers as they check out this year’s lineup of seven original Filipino full-length films and 19 student shorts. Late-afternoon and evening screenings have been particularly in demand, with some schedules quickly filling up.

Among the films drawing strong audience turnout are the queer-themed films “Patay Gutom” and “Multwoh (Patay na Patay sa ’Yo),” rom-com thriller “Stuck on You,” and coming-of-age film “Apol of My Ai.”

The demand was already evident even before the festival opened, with moviegoers lining up at cinemas to secure tickets in advance. Festival passes also quickly sold out at Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma.

For festival director Chris Cahilig, changes to this year’s selection may have helped bring more audiences to the festival.

“This year kasi kaya sobrang umingay talaga lalo kasi for a while, syempre mas independent films, inspirational films at binago namin iyong selection. Mas nag attract sya ng audiences,” Cahilig said.

“Ayun din ang isang difference is ang lalaki at ang gagaling ng artista natin ngayon,” he added.

The other full-length entries are Lawrence Fajardo’s “Beast,” BC Amparado’s “Mono No Aware,” and Joseph Abello’s “Wantawsan,” which are also attracting a fair number of moviegoers.

Beyond the films, CinePanalo also has souvenirs and giveaways for festivalgoers, including custom tote bags, pins, and grocery bags. Moviegoers get one grocery bag for every ticket purchased, while supplies last, meaning those who watch multiple films can take home more than one bag.

The CPFF began in 2024 with six full-length films and more than 20 student shorts.

This year’s festival runs through October 4 at Gateway Cineplex 18, TriNoma, Fairview Terraces, Ayala Malls Feliz, Circuit Makati, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, and Market! Market!

Regular admission is ₱250, while discounted tickets cost ₱200 for PWDs, senior citizens, students, and Aling Puring cardholders.

A ₱2,000 festival pass is available at Gateway Cineplex 18 and TriNoma, giving moviegoers access to the festival’s full lineup at participating cinemas in their respective locations.