MANILA, Philippines – The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) officially announces the first batch of entries for its 2025 edition on Tuesday, July 8. These films are set to hit theaters nationwide starting Christmas Day, December 25.
This year marks the 51st edition of the MMFF, carrying the theme "A New Era for Philippine Cinema." The launch event was held at the Glorietta Palm Drive Activity Center in Makati City, which also serves as the host city for this edition.
Adding star power to the festivities, Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) Celebrity Collab housemates Ralph de Leon, Esnyr Ranollo, River Joseph, and Big Winner Brent Manalo will take center stage in the grand launch.
Here is the first batch of MMFF 2025 movies to watch out for this December 25:
1. Call Me Mother
Cast: Vice Ganda and Nadine LustreDirected by: Jun Robles Lana
Production Company: ABS-CBN Films, IdeaFirst Company, Viva Films
2. Rekonek
Cast: Carmina Villaroel, Gloria Diaz, Alexa Miro, Zoren Legaspi, and Gerald AndersonDirected by: Jade Castro
Production Company: Reality Studios
3. Manila's Finest
Cast: Piolo PascualDirected by: Raymond Red
Production Company: Cignal TV Inc.
4. Shake Rattle and Roll: Evil Origins
Cast: Ivana Alawi, Fyang Smith, Ashley Ortega, Ysabel Ortega, Carla Abellana, Kaila Estrada, JM Ibarra, Seth Fedelin, Francine Diaz, and Dustin Yu Directed by: Shugo Praico, Joey de Guzman and Ian LoreñosProduction Company: Regal Entertainment Inc.
As the festival gears up for another year, excitement is building among filmmakers, actors, and moviegoers. The annual tradition continues to serve as a platform for showcasing Filipino storytelling and cinematic artistry.
Two major highlights of the MMFF—the Parade of Stars and Gabi ng Parangal (Awards Night)—are also anticipated to bring added spectacle to the holiday season.
The final batch of entries will be announced on September 30.
Traditionally featuring eight official entries, the MMFF has recently expanded to ten films in some editions, reflecting the growing diversity and output of the Philippine film industry.
— The Summit Express