MMFF 2026 completes ‘Magic 8’ lineup with four new films

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 15, 2026

Photo courtesy: MMFF FB PAGE

MANILA, Philippines — The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has unveiled its final four entries for 2026, completing the eight-film lineup for this year’s Christmas movie season.

Festival organizers announced the selections on Monday, October 12, at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City.

The newly confirmed entries are “Los Salvajes Bravos,” “Little Hope,” “Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF” and “A Perfect Marriage.”

The films feature historical events, family relationships, faith and personal struggles. They will compete in the 52nd edition of the annual festival, which opens on December 25.

Four new films join MMFF 2026

“Los Salvajes Bravos” stars Romnick Sarmenta and Ruru Madrid. Directed by Paolo Dy, the historical drama explores the exploitation of Filipinos brought to Spain for an exhibition in Madrid in 1887.

Produced by Jesuit Communications, the film follows an Igorot former soldier who attempts to save his people from exploitation.

Meanwhile, “Little Hope” follows a young girl battling cancer who hopes to find a companion for her father.

The comedy-drama stars Yassi Pressman and Pepe Herrera, alongside Cailey Ayesha Magno, Empress Schuck, Isay Alvarez and Robert Seña. Benedict Mique wrote and directed the film for Lonewolf Films.

Another entry, “Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF,” tells the story of a Claretian missionary who devoted his life to serving communities in Basilan.

Directed by Rommel Galapia Ruiz, the documentary features Zaijian Jaranilla portraying Fr. Gallardo in dramatized scenes.

Completing the newly announced entries is “A Perfect Marriage,” starring Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino.

Directed by Dan Villegas, the family drama follows a married couple dealing with loss, parenthood and unexpected changes in their relationship.

Eugene Domingo and Zac Sibug also join the cast. Quantum Films and WASD Films produced the movie.

Four previously announced entries

The latest selections join four films announced in July.

“The Greatest Showdown” brings together Vice Ganda and Vic Sotto in a comedy directed by Jun Robles Lana.

Meanwhile, “Amir,” directed by Zig Dulay, stars Dennis Trillo and Argus Aspiras in a fantasy drama.

Horror film “Haunted Carnival” features John Arcilla, James Reid, Julia Barretto, Fyang Smith and Maricel Soriano.

Rounding out the lineup is “2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7,” starring Aga Muhlach, Jodi Sta. Maria and Xia Vigor. The film continues the Filipino adaptation of the popular South Korean story.

‘Seeds of Peace’ faces screening questions

Despite completing the festival lineup, one of the newly selected entries is facing questions over its eligibility.

Concerns were raised about reported screenings of “Seeds of Peace” before its selection as an official MMFF entry.

MMFF spokesperson Noel Ferrer acknowledged the issue and said the film’s producers would be given an opportunity to respond.

The festival’s Rules Committee will review the matter and follow due process.

As of October 15, festival organizers had not announced a decision disqualifying the documentary.

MMFF tickets capped at ₱299

The 52nd MMFF will open nationwide on December 25, bringing all eight entries to participating cinemas.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and MMFF Chairman Romando Artes also confirmed a ₱299 ticket price ceiling for regular cinemas.

The price cap does not apply to specialty theaters, including premium cinema formats.

With its official lineup complete, the festival is preparing for its annual Christmas screening season, offering Filipino audiences a selection of comedy, drama, horror, fantasy and historical films.