Manila: The city government is encouraging student filmmakers to participate in the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Student Shorts Competition under the theme 'Paskong Pinoy /Pasko Sa Atin.' Bacolod is set to become the first city outside the National Capital Region to host MMFF-related events this December.
According to Philippines News Agency, the MMFF, in its 52nd year, is an annual film festival organized by the Metro Manila Development Authority. The city government extended an invitation on Tuesday, urging student filmmakers to showcase their talents and share their stories with the entire Philippines, emphasizing the unique Christmas spirit of Bacolod.
The MMFF Student Shorts Competition aims to feature original stories celebrating the Filipino Christmas experience. It is a collaborative effort by the MMFF, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and the Film Academy of the Philippines. The competition serves as a platform for young Filipino filmmakers to express their perspectives through film, focusing on the essence of 'Paskong Pilipino/ Pasko Sa Atin' through their experiences, culture, and imagination.
A total of 16 semi-finalists will be awarded a PHP20,000 script development grant and will participate in a story development workshop. Eight finalists will receive a PHP50,000 production grant, attend a short filmmaking workshop, and have their films screened nationwide alongside the official MMFF 2026 entries.
The MMFF Best Student Short Film will be awarded a PHP100,000 cash prize during the MMFF Awards Night. The deadline for entry submissions is August 31, 2026.
