MANILA — The 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival opened at the Red Carpet Cinema in Shangri-La Plaza with a resounding message: Cinemalaya continues to be the gateway for new voices in Philippine cinema, while embracing the realities of evolving film technology.
Director Jose “Joey” Javier Reyes of the Film Development Council of the Philippines underscored the festival’s role in nurturing generations of filmmakers.
“This is indeed the platform for the new generation and the future generation of Cinemalaya,” Reyes said. “Hindi pwedeng mamatay ang Cinemalaya. Ang Cinemalaya ang mag-uusbong sa kinabukasan ng Pilipulang Pilipino. At kayong mga manonood, kayong mga manilikha, kayo ang Pelikulang Pilipino.”
Cinemalaya Foundation president Laurice Guillen reflected on the rise of artificial intelligence, urging filmmakers to meet technological change with both wonder and discernment.
“Today, we find ourselves standing before another transformation: artificial intelligence. Whether we welcome it or fear it, one thing is certain: it is here. It is changing the landscape of creativity before our eyes,” Guillen said.
“The question is whether we continue to use technology to extend our imagination or slowly allow it to replace the work of imagination itself. Technology may become astonishingly capable, but only a human being can answer the question that matters most: Why this story? Why now?” she added.
Guillen also reminded the audience that while tools evolve, stories are born from memory, grief, hope, and love; experiences no algorithm can replicate.
Meanwhile, Jovita Polloso, executive vice president for retail and commercial of Shang Properties Inc., emphasized the festival’s theme “Reel Reflections” and the deliberate choices behind its curation.
“The filmmakers represented tonight didn’t take the easy road to get here. What we carry here, the film we screen, the festival we host, the conversations we make room for, these are intentional choices,” Polloso said.
Cinemalaya 22: Reel Reflections is happening on August 6-18, 2026 at Red Carpet Cinemas - Shangri-La Plaza, Gateway Cineplex 18, and select Ayala Malls Cinemas.