MANILA, Philippines — The 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) has completed its Magic 8 lineup, with four more films officially announced Monday, bringing the total number of entries to eight for the 2026 edition.
The second batch includes the historical drama “Los Salvajes Bravos,” the family drama “Little Hope,” the biographical meta-documentary “Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF,” and the romantic drama “A Perfect Marriage.”
The announcement was held at Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City, with KaladKaren and Enchong Dee serving as hosts.
Produced by JesCom Films and directed by Paolo Dy, “Los Salvajes Bravos” stars Romnick Sarmenta and Ruru Madrid in a historical drama that adds to the festival’s mix of stories and genres.
“Little Hope,” meanwhile, is a family drama produced by Lonewolf Films and directed by Benedict Mique. It stars Yassi Pressman and Pepe Herrera in a story centered on family and emotional relationships.
“Seeds of Peace: The Life of Fr. Rhoel D. Gallardo, CMF” explores the ministry, abduction and martyrdom of Servant of God Father Rhoel Gallardo, a Claretian missionary who was abducted and killed in Basilan. Zaijian Jaranilla stars in the biographical meta-documentary, which focuses on the priest’s life and religious mission.
Rounding out the second batch is “A Perfect Marriage,” starring Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino. Directed by Dan Villegas, the film is produced by Quantum Films and WASD Films, with a screenplay by Chris Martinez and Therese Cayaba.
The four titles join the first batch of entries announced July 7.
The first batch comprises “2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7,” starring Aga Muhlach, Jodi Sta. Maria and Xia Vigor and directed by Nuel Naval; “Amir,” featuring Dennis Trillo, Will Ashley, Glaiza de Castro and Argus Aspiras under the direction of Zig Dulay; “Haunted Carnival,” starring Maricel Soriano, James Reid, Julia Barretto, Fyang Smith and John Arcilla and directed by Joey de Guzman; and “The Greatest Showdown,” featuring Vic Sotto and Vice Ganda under the direction of Jun Robles Lana.
For the first time in the festival’s announced plans, the Parade of Stars will take place in two locations. Bacolod City will host a parade on Dec. 12, while San Juan City and Mandaluyong City will jointly host the Metro Manila parade on Dec. 18.
Movie tickets for the festival are capped at P299, making the annual showcase of Filipino films more accessible to audiences during the Christmas season.
The festival will hold its Gabi ng Parangal, or awards night, on Dec. 2.
The festival will hold its Gabi ng Parangal, or awards night, on Dec. 2.