The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
Quezon City, Philippines – The Philippine cinema industry took a decisive step toward revitalization as CINE EXPO 2026 successfully concluded recently at Gateway Cineplex, Araneta City, bringing together key stakeholders from exhibition, distribution, production, and government.
Anchored on the theme “The Big Screen Strikes Back,” the event underscored the industry’s renewed momentum and collective commitment to innovation, collaboration, and audience engagement in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.
A United Industry Driving Forward
Setting the tone for the event, CEAP Chairperson Karen Zabaljauregui emphasized the enduring role of moviegoing:
“Moviegoing continues to be a strong social and cultural activity for Filipino audiences. What we are seeing today is not the decline of theatrical exhibition, but rather the evolution of the cinema experience.”
Delivering the keynote, Congressman Javi Benitez, Chairman of the House Special Committee on Creative Industries, highlighted the power of industry-wide alignment:
“The Big Screen does not strike back by accident. It strikes back because of the collision of producers, distributors, exhibitors, regulators, and legislators who decided together that it should.”
Elevating the Cinema Experience Through Collaboration
Through a series of presentations, panel discussions, and studio showcases, industry leaders tackled the most pressing opportunities shaping the future of theatrical exhibition—from content protection and audience behavior to technology and distribution strategies.
Major studios including Regal Entertainment, Reality MM Studios, Viva Films, Creazion Studios, Pioneer Films, Columbia Pictures, Warner Bros. Pictures, Press Play Pictures Philippines, and ABS-CBN Film Productions shared their latest content pipelines and strategic directions.
Adding depth to the discussions, MTRCB Chairman Diorella “Lala” Sotto-Antonio graced the event and delivered a session emphasizing the vital role of regulation—highlighting how film classification helps build audience trust, responsible viewership, and sustainable industry growth.
The event was further strengthened by the presence of MMDA Deputy Chairman Usec. Frisco San Juan Jr., who also serves as Executive Chairman of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).
Star Power and Industry Conversations
CINE EXPO 2026 was energized by the presence of notable personalities from the film and entertainment industry.
Actors Joross Gamboa and Jerald Napoles, together with producer Perci Intalan and talent manager Noel Ferrer, participated in a panel discussion exploring what drives Filipino audiences to watch films today.
The event was also graced by celebrated industry figures including Charo Santos, Christopher de Leon, Tony Labrusca, Julia Barretto, and Donny Pangilinan.
Recognizing Excellence in Cinema
A highlight of the event was the Awards and Recognition ceremony, honoring outstanding achievements in the industry.
CINE EXPO 2026 recognized the top-grossing films of 2025, celebrating both global and local box office success:
Top Foreign Film: Warner Bros.’ “The Conjuring: Last Rites”
Top Local Film: ABS-CBN Film Productions’ “Meet, Greet & Bye”
The cast of “Meet, Greet & Bye” was also honored with the Box Office Ensemble Award. Actress Belle Mariano accepted the recognition on behalf of the cast.