Lower ticket prices for “Batang Paco”

Moviegoing has become more affordable this February as the Filipino film “Batang Paco” opened in cinemas nationwide with ticket prices lower than the usual rates across major theater chains.

​Ticket prices for “Batang Paco” vary by cinema and location. At SM Cinemas, tickets are priced at Php275 in Metro Manila, while provincial branches are offering tickets at Php230.

At Ayala Malls Cinemas, tickets cost Php275 in Metro Manila and Php250 in provincial locations.

Meanwhile, Robinsons Malls Cinemas have set ticket prices at Php280 in Metro Manila, with provincial rates ranging from Php230 to Php250, depending on the cinema.

According to executive producer and MiVida Productions founder Ana Abiera del Moral, the decision to lower ticket prices was made to allow more Filipinos to enjoy the film without financial pressure.

​“I decided to lower the ticket price because I want more people to have the chance to watch ‘Batang Paco’ without worrying about the cost,” Ana shared. “Life is already expensive, and sometimes what families and friends need is a simple moment to laugh together and feel inspired.”

She added that accessibility was a key consideration in the film’s release strategy.

“If we can make that experience more accessible, then we’ve done something meaningful,” she said.

Topbilled by Empoy Marquez and Ai Ai de las Alas, “Batang Paco” is a family comedy-drama that follows the story of Paco, a timid tattoo artist who is forced into extraordinary circumstances when his child is taken.

The film explores themes of love, fear, faith, and parental sacrifice, presenting a deeply Filipino story rooted in everyday struggles and resilience.

Empoy delivers a performance that blends humor and vulnerability, portraying an ordinary man discovering unexpected strength when driven by love. Ai Ai, meanwhile, adds warmth and emotional depth, grounding the film’s emotional core.

Ana also emphasized the importance of supporting the local film industry by watching Filipino films in cinemas.

​“I truly hope Filipinos continue to support our local film industry by watching our films in cinemas and believing in our own stories,” she noted.

​Looking beyond local audiences, she shared her vision of bringing Filipino stories to the international stage.

“I dream of sharing Filipino stories internationally—showing the world our humor, heart, resilience, and talent. We have so much to offer globally, and it starts with us supporting and valuing our own movie industry first.”

Directed by Rechie del Carmen and written by Gina Marissa-Tagasa, “Batang Paco” marks the maiden theatrical release of MiVida Productions. (Audie See)