For the first time ever, Jasmine Curtis-Smith and Royce Cabrera are sharing the stage in the theater adaptation of the 2007 Cinemalaya hit Endo. Presented by Ticket2Me in partnership with PETA Plus, the much-awaited stage adaptation runs from April 10 to May 10 at the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) Theater Center, where audiences will finally get to experience the compelling story of Endo live on stage, with the new pairing of Jasmine and Royce bringing fresh energy and intimate depth to the beloved characters.
Almost two decades ago,Endo the movie captured hearts in the independent film scene, winning awards like the Special Jury Prize, the Gawad Urian Award for Best Screenplay, and the TANGLAW Award for Best Picture for its honest portrayal of ordinary Filipinos navigating love while living paycheck to paycheck under the uncertainty of contractual work.
This April, the critically acclaimed story comes alive once again through its stage adaptation, directed byMelvin Lee and written for the stage by Liza Magtoto, bringing the characters and their struggles to life in a fresh, personal way that allows audiences to connect with the story all over again.
Jasmine stars as Tanya, a spirited dreamer who wants more out of her life. Royce plays Leo, a young man caught in a cycle of temporary jobs and fleeting relationships, searching for stability in love and life. Meanwhile, a figure from Leo’s past, Candy (portrayed by Kate Alejandrino) complicates the path Leo and Tanya must navigate.
Supporting the leads as alternates areRissey Reyes‑Robinson as Tanya, Esteban Mara as Leo, and Iana Bernardez as Candy – ready to bring the same intensity and heart to every performance.
This stage adaptation of Endois set to bring heightened tension and raw romantic emotion to the story of Tanya and Leo. Every personal moment, choice, and hesitation draws the audience in, leaving them hooked to a story that is impossible to forget.
Experience Endo live on stage from April 10 to May 10 at the PETA Theater Center. Tickets are available through Ticket2Me, with prices ranging from ₱1,600 to ₱2,700. Secure your tickets now at ticket2me.net and follow Ticket2Me on Facebook and Instagram for more information.
One of the most celebrated films of the year is finally making its way to Philippine cinemas. HAMNET, the Golden Globe Best Picture – Drama winner and an eight-time Academy Award nominee, arrives exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas beginning February 18, offering local audiences a rare chance to experience an awards-season triumph on the big screen.
Written and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao, HAMNET is adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s best-selling and critically acclaimed novel. The film stars Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson, and Joe Alwyn, delivering deeply affecting performances that have captivated critics worldwide.
A Standout of the Awards Season
HAMNET has emerged as one of the most talked-about films of the year, earning Academy Award nominations for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress, and a host of major craft categories including Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Casting, Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, and Best Original Score.
The film also made waves at the Golden Globes, where it claimed Best Motion Picture – Drama, alongside Jessie Buckley’s win for Best Performance by a Female Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama. Lauded for its emotional honesty and restrained storytelling, HAMNET continues to resonate with audiences for its intimate portrayal of love, grief, and creation.
Watch the Official Trailer here:
The Story Behind a Timeless Masterpiece
Set in late 16th-century England, HAMNET offers a poignant reimagining of the life of William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes. What begins as a passionate courtship blossoms into marriage and family life, with three children grounding their world.
As Will leaves for London to pursue a career in theater, Agnes remains behind, managing the household and holding their family together. When tragedy unexpectedly strikes, the couple’s enduring bond is pushed to its limits. Out of heartbreak and remembrance comes the emotional foundation that would later inspire Hamlet, one of the most enduring works in literary history.
A Film Best Experienced at Ayala Malls Cinemas
Ayala Malls Cinemas provides the ideal setting for a film as visually poetic and emotionally resonant as HAMNET. Every detail of the period drama is elevated through state-of-the-art digital projection, while the film’s evocative original score fills the theater with rich surround sound, amplifying each quiet moment and emotional turn.
With premium seating, refreshed interiors, and a thoughtfully curated cinematic environment, Ayala Malls Cinemas allows audiences to fully immerse themselves in stories that matter. Known for showcasing critically acclaimed films and award-winning masterpieces, it remains the perfect venue to experience Hamnet’s quiet strength and lasting impact.
A Vision Trusted by Cinema Legends
Producer Steven Spielberg praised Chloé Zhao’s approach to the material, expressing confidence in her ability to bring O’Farrell’s novel to the screen with sensitivity and care.
“The beautiful and memorable storytelling in Maggie O’Farrell’s best-selling novel deserved to be brought to the screen by a filmmaker who would protect the material’s integrity and demonstrate an intuitive understanding of the emotional and complex journey that the characters—and the audience—take over the course of the story. There was only one director I knew who would bring Hamnet to the screen with such compassionate care, and that is Chloé Zhao,” says Spielberg. “In adapting the novel with Maggie, Chloé’s inherent humanity, unerring sense of narrative, and gift for getting remarkable performances infuse every frame of Hamnet”.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an Early Access Screening
Audiences looking for a meaningful Valentine’s Day experience can be among the first to watch HAMNET during Early Access screenings on February 14 at 6:30 PM, available at select Ayala Malls Cinemas locations:
Trinoma
Glorietta 4
Ayala Malls Manila Bay
HAMNET opens exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas on February 18. Book tickets now at www.sureseats.com.
For the latest updates, follow Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram.
The Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA), the country’s pioneering theater organization committed to artistic excellence and creative education, is opening its doors once again to creative minds with the return of its much-anticipated workshop season from February to June 2026.
In partnership with Metrobank, PETA continues to make world-class theater training more accessible by offering an exclusive 10% discount to Metrobank credit cardholders on select workshop programs. This special offer underscores both organizations’ commitment to fostering artistic growth and expanding opportunities for creative learning in the Philippines.
This special offer applies to PETA’s Workshop Weekends (scheduled from February to March 2026) and the intensive Summer Workshop for all ages (running from April to June 2026). Whether you’re a beginner or experienced performer, PETA’s workshops are designed to inspire creativity, sharpen skills, and deepen your appreciation for the theater arts.
This collaboration between PETA and Metrobank supports the ongoing effort to bring transformative arts education to more participants across Metro Manila and beyond—encouraging learners to express, create, and connect through the performing arts.
Here is the complete list of workshops where the discount applies:
Workshop Weekends Lineup (February to March 2026)
*As of January 9, 2026, these are the only adult workshops with slots available:
Meisner Technique Level 1 (PHP 13,000)
February 18, 20, 23, 25, 26, March 2, 4, 6 | 7:00 to 10:00 PM
Introduction to Writing for Performance (PHP 13,000)
February 21, 22, 28, March 1, 7, 8 | 3:00 to 8:00 PM
Claim the last few slots for the Workshop Weekends with your Metrobank credit card through bit.ly/PETAww2026
Summer Workshop Lineup (April to June 2026)
*Enrollment begins February 1, 2026. Pre-registered participants with Metrobank credit cards can avail of their discounted slots through bit.ly/PETASWS2026.
Children’s Theater 1 (6 to 8 years old)
Children’s Theater 2 (9 to 12 years old)
Teen Theater (13 to 17 years old)
Musical Theater for Teens (13 to 17 years old)
Adult Workshops (18 years old and above)
Theater Arts (AM & PM Class)
Acting 1 (Batch 1 and Batch 2 classes available)
Creative Musical Theater
CMT Production Workshop (*Exclusive for PETA Workshoppers who have previously taken Creative Musical Theater)
*NEW* Meisner Technique Level 2
*NEW* Acting for Screen
Rooted in PETA’s creative pedagogy and the integrated arts approach, their workshops are guaranteed to equip participants with the necessary theater skills that are applicable both on and off the stage without sacrificing the fun that goes behind the creative process.
Workshop slots run out fast, you can secure yours today. For workshop inquiries, contact Mr. Yel dela Cruz at 0960-240-0897 or yeldelacruz@petatheater.com
Follow @petaworkshops on Instagram for the latest workshop updates and schedules.
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance—it’s about connection, healing, and celebrating the people who’ve stuck with you through it all. And if you’re a fan of Korean indie-rock band The Rose—known as a Black Rose—you already know: this love runs deep.
In a heartfelt gift to their fans, Ayala Malls Cinemas proudly presents The Rose: Come Back To Me — a touching, one-week-only documentary film that goes behind the music and into the hearts of Woosung, Dojoon, Hajoon, and Jaehyeong.
Running February 14 to 20, this A-Exclusive screening brings fans up close and personal with the band’s emotional journey—only at Ayala Malls Cinemas.
Behind the Spotlight: The Untold Story of The Rose
More than just a music documentary, The Rose: Come Back To Me is a story of strength, dreams, and unwavering friendship.
From leaving behind the traditional K-pop idol path to carving their own sound and space in the industry, the film follows the group’s evolution from misunderstood indie rockers to chart-topping global artists. Along the way, it reveals the painful pauses—legal disputes, an unexpected hiatus, and emotional burnout—that tested their unity and commitment.
But through it all, The Rose rose again.
Featuring the exclusive track “Trauma,” composed just for the film, Come Back To Me blends powerful music with unfiltered storytelling. It’s their way of thanking the fans who never left.
A Movie Date Worth Remembering
Whether you’re part of the fandom or discovering The Rose for the first time, this Valentine’s week offers a refreshing alternative to the usual romantic flicks. It’s for the ones who’ve found comfort in lyrics. Who’ve healed with harmonies. Who understand that love, in its truest form, is often found in community and creative expression.
And where better to feel all of that than in the plush, immersive setting of Ayala Malls Cinemas?
Premium Cinematic Experience, Made for Fans
Ayala Malls Cinemas continues to be the go-to destination for unforgettable movie moments—especially for Hallyu fans.
Expect:
Comfy seats with extra legroom
State-of-the-art Dolby Atmos and Dolby Sound
Exclusive screenings across premier locations
So yes, whether you’re laughing, crying, or singing under your breath, this is the place to be.
Where to Watch
Mark your calendars and secure those tickets—this exclusive screening runs for just one week, from February 14 to 20.
Planning to go with your barkada? Watching solo as a self-love date? However you’re spending it, don’t forget to share your experience with the rest of the fandom online!
Use the hashtags: #TheRoseComeBackToMe #ValentinesWithTheRose #AyalaMallsCinemas
Post those selfies, concert cries, or post-film thoughts on Instagram, Threads, X, and TikTok. Your story might just be shared by other fans—or even the band themselves.
This Valentine’s, Love Sounds Like The Rose
This isn’t just a film. It’s a love letter—to fans, to music, and to the journey of choosing authenticity over perfection.
From February 14 to 20, let The Rose: Come Back To Me remind you why music matters—and why fan love never fades.
For more updates, follow Ayala Malls Cinemas on Facebook and Instagram.
Customers can immerse themselves in the dynamic energy of the Year of the Horse at Robinsons Department Store’s (RDS) Chinese New Year weekend celebration from February 13 to February 17 at its Robinsons Galleria branch in Ortigas. The store will be decked in bright red lanterns to signify prosperity and joy.
RDS welcomes luck and fortune through exciting retail experiences, freebies, and interactive attractions. Shoppers can enjoy carousel rides, try their luck at the Prosperi Tree, take part in fortune readings, and more.
Event Highlights:
Whimsical Carousel Ride
From February 13 to 17 from 12 nn to 7 pm, shoppers can enjoy a free in-store New Year-themed whimsical horse carousel ride with a minimum single-receipt purchase of ₱500.
Pick your Luck Prosperi-tree Freebies
Feeling lucky? Drop by the Prosperi-tree and get a chance to win up to ₱500 in Robinson’s Department Store Gift Certificates for a minimum single-receipt purchase of ₱3,500.
Fortune Reading Discover what 2026 has in store for you and get insights into your year ahead with a FREE Fortune Reading for every ₱2,000 purchase on February 1–17 from 1 PM – 5 PM.
Photo Booth
Take home a lasting keepsake at RDS . Capture festive moments and memories with free Photo Booth prints available for all shoppers with a ₱500 minimum single-receipt purchase from February 13–17.
In the spirit of love and good fortune, RDS also tags February the perfect time to shop for thoughtful Valentine gifts – from flowers, fashion pieces, beauty products and accessories to home and everyday essentials. Lucky shoppers on February 14 will receive a special Valentine’s surprise, adding an extra reason to rejoice.
Whether you’re celebrating a spouse, a partner, your family, a “Galentine” bestie or even a little self-love, RDS is stocked and ready to help you find the perfect gift for everyone in your list.
Join the festivities and claim your share of luck and love at Robinsons Department Store, the ultimate destination to celebrate and gear up for yet another prosperous year
To know more, follow Official Social Media Channels on Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok @robinsonsdepartmentstore
I want Rachel McAdams to get acting nominations for her performance in this campy, gory suspense/thriller, that’s actually pretty funny if you can get past director Sam Raimi’s affinity to blood and gore. It’s definitely a feminist film, maligning the toxic masculinity that seems very apparent in corporate America. And what I love about its feminism is that it isn’t afraid to make McAdams’ Linda to be a heavily flawed character. She’s as human as the rest of us – awkward, a little obsessive, a bit unkempt and untidy – but her rage is justified. And when the narrative beats pushes her to cross the line, the film is unafraid to show that she’s just as much the villain as her boss, played by Dylan O’Brien.
Send Help follows Linda Liddle, a hardworking employee in a corporation run by the father of Dylan O’Brien’s Bradley Preston. Bradley is set to take over the company after his father’s passing, and Linda, who has been carrying the bulk of the work in her department, is hoping that the senior Preston’s promise of making her a vice-president will be honoured by Bradley. But to her shock, she’s passed over by her direct supervisor, who has taken credit for all her accomplishments at work. When she confronts Bradley head-on, he tells her she should join them on a trip to Bangkok for a merger to prove herself. But the plane malfunctions and crashes into the ocean, leaving Linda and Bradley on an island. With only Linda’s survival skills – she dreams of becoming a contestant on the hit television reality show Survivor – to keep them alive while they wait for rescue.
The screenplay of Damian Shannon and Mark Swift takes a satirical tone, over exaggerating the worst of corporate structures, toxic masculinity, and giving a fantastical take on Linda’s duality. At the office, she’s a mess, her hair is always untidy, her clothes are devoid of femininity, and she’s criticized for having an “odious smell” stemming from her love of tuna fish sandwiches. She’s socially awkward, and no one likes her, despite being a genius with numbers and a highly efficient workhorse. On the island, stripped of the social hierarchies and mind games of corporate life, she blooms. All her books on survival and her dreams of becoming a cast member of Survivor bring out her full potential. Here, she’s in charge. Her hair is gorgeous. In the office, her makeup is pale, attempting to give her the no-makeup look and tries (a challenge for McAdams) to make her look plain. But on the island, the makeup artist gives her a radiant glow. And the Rachel McAdams we know, who made a breathtaking debut in the Mean Girls and rose to superstardom in The Notebook makes a striking reappearance.
It’s almost a toxic masculine wet dream, but Shannon, Swift, and director Sam Raimi quickly subvert this. Linda’s personality quirks still remain, yet the power being the sole provider for her horrible boss brings out a side of her she didn’t know she had. Of course, at first, Bradley orders her around, belittles her, and mocks her, but when he realises he cannot survive on the island without her, he begins to take a more submissive role. This shift not only encourages Linda’s growth but also nudges her further tipping into the darker side of her personality.
The film is funny, action-packed, and horrifying all at the same time. Raimi’s use of unconventional camera angles, perspectives, and his penchant for jump scares and gore keeps the film exciting, perfect for audiences who have come for a roller-coaster ride. Even as Bradley and Linda start pushing each other’s buttons, bringing out the worst versions in themselves, you can’t help but root for Linda. The film has already positioned her as the initial victim – even as the twists and turns of the film’s narrative quickly turns that around and shift her into a perpetrator as well – and in a way, the film tackles the underdog story of gaining power and becoming the aggressor. The comedic aspect of the movie allow us to bend our morality for this film so we can excuse all her behaviour on the island.
The crowd around me as I was watching was firmly on her side, even when she went too far.
O’Brien serves as a great foil, portraying the toxic male nepo-baby to a tee. You enjoy hating him and constantly question when he starts to show kindness towards Linda. But make not mistake, this is McAdams’ movie through and through. She’s an amazing actress who understands the tone of camp, hitting it precisely at that frequency, yet she is able to switch it when her character undergoes an internal crisis. She finds pathos in the character and manages to bring it out even in the moments of Linda’s turn to the darker side of herself. Linda is slowly unraveling, but McAdams does it so naturally that it never feels like “a performance.” It simply settles into the rhythm of the film. I really want people to take note of this performance as a high-wire act that is not easy to do.
This movie itself is pure fun. Be ready to be grossed out, scream in agony and fright, and laugh at the absurdity of what Raimi, Shannon and Swift put these characters through. And keep your eyes on McAdams who nails this character and makes Linda completely unforgettable.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Get ready for laughs, screams, and pure chaos. Watch Send Help in cinemas now and witness Rachel McAdams’ unforgettable performance!
Get ready for a ferocious new chapter in the legendary Predator franchise! Predator: Badlands will be streaming exclusively on Disney+ Philippines starting February 12, delivering a fresh and fearless twist to the sci-fi saga fans have followed for nearly four decades.
Under the direction of Dan Trachtenberg (Prey, 10 Cloverfield Lane), this latest installment expands the mythos of the terrifying Yautja hunters, while introducing a dynamic duo of new characters and a story packed with high-octane action, survival drama, and emotional grit.
Thrown together by fate, the two form an unlikely alliance as they trek across the brutal terrain in search of the ultimate foe. With danger lurking behind every corner and trust in short supply, their journey becomes more than a fight for survival, it becomes a test of identity, loyalty, and purpose.
Action Meets Emotion in a Stunning Sci-Fi Spectacle
Brimming with explosive combat scenes, sleek creature design, and rich world-building, Predator: Badlands delivers everything action fans crave, and then some. But it’s not all blood and battle. This time, the film digs deeper into the emotional core of its characters, exploring themes of exile, resilience, and the strength found in unexpected connections.
Expect seamless visual effects, pulse-pounding tension, and a surprising dose of heart as the narrative flips the franchise formula on its head, offering viewers a deeper glimpse into Predator culture and what it means to be the hunted and the hunter.
Breaking Franchise Records Worldwide
Critics and audiences can’t get enough. Predator: Badlands has already clawed its way to the top of the franchise leaderboard, grossing an impressive $184.5 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing Predator film of all time. It has officially overtaken 2004’s Alien vs. Predator, which previously held the crown with $177.4 million.
And the accolades don’t stop there. The film currently holds a 95% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Hot Popcornmeter and an 86% Certified Fresh rating from critics, earning praise for its bold storytelling, sharp direction, and thrilling visuals.
Watch the Entire Predator Legacy on Disney+
Hyped for Badlands but want to catch up first? Disney+ Philippines has you covered. The entire Predator movie collection is now available to stream—perfect for newcomers and longtime fans alike.
From the original 1987 classic to 2022’s acclaimed Prey, and now Badlands, it’s the ultimate binge for sci-fi lovers.
Film Synopsis
In the distant future, on a merciless alien planet riddled with hidden dangers, a young Predator named Dek finds himself exiled from his tribe. Struggling with isolation and shame, he crosses paths with Thia, a resourceful human survivor with a haunted past.
Forced to rely on one another, Dek and Thia embark on a high-stakes journey to track down the deadliest creature in the galaxy—a mission that will challenge everything they thought they knew about strength, honor, and survival.
Save the Date: February 12
The wait is almost over. Predator: Badlands arrives February 12 on Disney+ Philippines, ready to thrill, shock, and redefine the hunt for a whole new generation.
Strap in for the boldest Predator story yet, where monsters aren’t always what they seem, and survival is only the beginning.
Horror Comes Home: Kevin Williamson Finally Directs Scream 7
After nearly 30 years of redefining the horror genre with his whip-smart script for the original Scream, Kevin Williamson is stepping into a new role—Director.
“People ask me that all the time, have I always wanted to direct a Scream movie, and I say, yes, with all my heart.”
Now, with Scream 7 opening in Philippine cinemas this February 25, fans will see the beloved creator take full creative control—for the very first time—as the franchise’s writer, producer, and director.
WATCH the featurette featuring Neve Campbell and Isabel May sharing their experience with Williamson at the helm:
A New Nightmare Begins: Ghostface Returns
In Scream 7, the story picks up in a quiet town far from Woodsboro—where Sidney Prescott (played by the returning Neve Campbell) has started over. After years of trauma, she’s built a peaceful life for herself and her daughter, played by rising star Isabel May.
But peace is short-lived.
A new Ghostface emerges, targeting Sidney’s daughter in a terrifying twist that forces the legendary survivor to face her darkest memories. With blood once again being spilled, Sidney is pushed to her limits in a desperate fight to end the terror—for good.
Familiar Faces and New Frights
Alongside the return of Courteney Cox as Gale Weathers, the film introduces a star-studded ensemble that mixes fresh talent with fan-favorites:
With Ghostface back on the prowl, no one is safe—and everyone’s a suspect.
(From left) Neve Campbell as Sidney Prescott and director Kevin Williamson on the set of Scream 7
Kevin Williamson: From Pen to Director’s Chair
For fans of the franchise, seeing Kevin Williamson return in such a hands-on role is a dream come true. Known for writing the original Scream (1996) and shaping its meta-horror legacy, Williamson now finally brings his vision to life behind the camera.
The screenplay for Scream 7 is penned by Williamson and Guy Busick (Ready or Not, Scream VI), while production is handled by William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, and Paul Neinstein. Together, they aim to blend nostalgia, fresh scares, and deep emotional stakes in what promises to be one of the most intense entries in the series yet.
Why This One Hits Different
This isn’t just another Ghostface killing spree. Scream 7 explores motherhood, legacy, and the weight of survival—through the eyes of Sidney, a character who’s grown alongside her audience.
With Kevin Williamson finally directing the franchise he birthed, fans can expect a return to the clever, suspenseful storytelling that made Scream iconic—but with even more heart and horror.
See Scream 7 in Cinemas on February 25
The legacy of Scream lives on—and with Williamson behind the lens, it’s about to cut deeper than ever.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the franchise, this is the horror event you don’t want to miss.
Catch Scream 7 exclusively in Philippine cinemas this February 25. #Scream7 @paramountpicsph
Love takes center stage this Valentine’s season at Diamond Hotel Philippines with “All for Love,” dining experiences designed for everyone — from couples and close friends to families celebrating together. From February 13 to 15, 2026, guests are invited to create meaningful moments over exceptional cuisine across the hotel’s signature restaurants.
At Corniche, families and friends can come together over heartwarming Valentine’s buffets featuring a lavish spread of international favorites. The buffet is available at Php 3,988 net per person for February 13 lunch, February 14 lunch and first seating dinner, and February 15 lunch or dinner. For those who prefer a more intimate evening affair, a special second seating dinner buffet on February 14 is offered at Php 4,288 net per person, inclusive of a glass of red or white wine.
For lovers of Japanese cuisine, Yurakuen blends a harmony of tradition and flavors for the occasion. Couples may savor an elegant 8-course Valentine’s set menu served with a glass of plum wine at Php 8,500 net for two persons. Guests may also opt for the interactive Teppanyaki Eat-All-You-Can at Php 4,280 net per person or the flavorful Yakiniku Eat-All-You-Can at Php 3,780 net per person, both complemented with a glass of red or white wine.
Meanwhile, the Lobby Lounge and Bar 27 offer a relaxed yet romantic setting with a specially prepared 4-course Valentine’s set menu for two at Php 5,800 net, paired with a glass of standard drink — ideal for lingering conversations and cozy evenings.
No celebration of love is complete without something sweet. Delight loved ones with charming confections including the Frosting Flowers Cupcake Bouquet, the Amour Doré Macaron collection, and cakes such as Caramel Kisses and Strawberry Caress. These wonderful creations are available for purchase at onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com until February 15, 2026.
Whether honoring a lasting partnership, sharing quality time with family, or simply celebrating the people closest to your heart, Diamond Hotel Philippines sets the stage for a Valentine’s celebration filled with sublime feasts, warm ambiance, and moments that matter most.
For reservations call (63 2) 8528-3000 or email restaurant_rsvn@diamondhotel.com. Guests may also purchase vouchers at onlineshopping.diamondhotel.com. All promotions are not valid in conjunction with other promotional offers. Prior reservations are encouraged.
When it started in 2005, the CCP Pasinaya: The Open House Festival had only its resident companies on board, with an estimated 1000 audiences inside the CCP Main Building. Twenty years later, it has grown into the country’s largest multi-arts festival, fostering artistic exchange and genuine connections.
Its growth was not achieved overnight. It required sustained care, extensive connections and collaborations, and thoughtful planning and execution to become what it is today. With over 40,000 attendees last year alone, CCP Pasinaya’s success grows every year. Its commitment to engage audiences, nurture Filipino artists, and spark Philippine arts and culture appreciation in the next generation remains unwavering.
Much of this success can be attributed to performing groups and artists, like Komedya ng Don Galo (KDG) and Lipa Actors Company (LAC), who continue to volunteer and showcase their talents year after year.
A stage for performing groups’ stories
“Back in 2011, we were a young theater company still developing our voice, so joining such a distinguished festival [CCP Pasinaya] was both unexpected and deeply affirming,” recalled LAC artistic director Peregrine Santiago.
LAC began in 2008 when its pioneer members gathered for the Dulaang Viajero Filipinas Performance Lab, a project sponsored by the Lipa City Culture & the Arts Council. Luisito Nario, the group’s founder and former artistic director, formed the non-profit organization with the vision to advance theater arts in Batangas and the CALABARZON region.
Besides the financial pressure of sustaining a local theater group, LAC finds it challenging to keep its members together. “Funding is a constant uphill battle, but beyond that, balancing schedules while trying to move our productions forward is a tough act to pull off,” explained Santiago.
Two years after its birth, LAC became the first theater group from Lipa City, Batangas to perform at the CCP Pasinaya in 2010.
Meanwhile, KDG, a community-based theater organization composed of current and former students of Don Galo Elementary School in Parañaque City, found out about the festival when they mounted a production, with Malou Macatuggal at the helm, at the CCP Little Theater in 2005. They heard about the festival from CCP’s former artistic director Nanding Josef. The group joined CCP Pasinaya in 2005 and has been returning ever since.
When Jess Macatuggal became the director of KDG in 2017, he confessed that he had no idea about the CCP Pasinaya and its impact. “Doon ko mas nakita na kinikilala pala siya [CCP Pasinaya] sa buong Pilipinas.”
Acknowledging the financial strain in pursuing KDG’s goal to revitalize comedy-drama theater in the Philippines, Macatuggal lamented the lack of proper recognition from the local government to sustain theater organizations like the KDG.
Leading a group of 60 members, Macatuggal encourages young artists to join auditions: “Mas maganda kasing makita ninyo ang sarili niyo sa entablado kaysa ‘yong nanonood kayo tapos puno kayo ng pagsisisi kasi hindi kayo nag-try.”
An inspiring space for tenacity and resilience
Much like LAC and KDG, CCP Pasinaya has braved difficulties in its 20 years. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, CCP Pasinaya had to cancel its performances and workshops. With the scarcity of face-to-face gatherings, the multi-arts festival switched to online editions.
Macatuggal was especially worried for CCP Pasinaya’s future back then. When the festival returned in 2023, he and the KDG debuted their comedy-drama iteration of Francisco Balagtas’ “Florante at Laura.” The memorable showcase comforted and reminded them that the performing arts sector is alive and well.
“Nung buhay na ulit ‘yong Pasinaya, nakita namin siya bilang sign na buhay na ulit ang entablado. Makakapagkuwento na kami ulit,” Macatuggal shared with a smile.
Santiago, on the other hand, saw the CCP Pasinaya stage as a crucial contributor to LAC’s identity: “We have built a connection with the festival audience. In 2016, we premiered our musical adaptation of Rene O. Villanueva’s ‘Santa Butsiki, Ang Unang Baboy sa Langit’ [at CCP Pasinaya], and laughter just filled the venue.”
A home built from candid connections
An annual festival happening every first weekend of February, CCP Pasinaya continues to attract performing art groups from all over the country. It inevitably creates a community that views art and self-expression as a necessity while nurturing emerging talent.
“It’s a rare moment when artists from all over the country come together, and CCP Pasinaya gives us the chance to perform at the CCP. That just adds meaning and inspiration to every performance,” said Santiago, recognizing the great honor of representing Lipa City, Batangas on a nationally recognized cultural landmark.
Macatuggal echoed the same sentiment of looking forward to meeting fellow artists, as it fuels KDG’s drive to tell stories. He reiterated, “Sobrang festive ng feeling kaya uuwi at uuwi talaga kamisa CCP para sa Pasinaya.”
A cultural landscape for nation-building
This year’s CCP Pasinaya embodies the theme “Paglikha sa Kinabukasan.” Carrying the inspiration instilled by the festival, LAC and KDG perform on its stage once again with renewed dedication to celebrate and nurture Philippine arts and culture.
Through its staging of “Komedya Palanyag,” KDG encourages young audiences to participate in shaping the future of the Philippines’ artistic landscape: “Anong ginagawa mo para makamit ‘yong kinabukasan na ‘yon? Laging nand’yan ang pag-asa pero ‘di sapat na umaasa lang tayo.”
For its CCP Pasinaya performance in 2026, LAC will mount a theatrical reimagining of one of Batangas’ most cherished legends, “Ang Pag-ibig ni Kumintang.” “The future is always unknown, but I truly believe that if we look back at our history and learn from the past, the future becomes much clearer and more meaningful,” expressed Santiago.
Watch the performances of KDG at 1 p.m., at the CCP Tanghalang Ignacio Gimenez (TIG), and LAC at 4 p.m., at the Met Theater in Manila on February 8. Following the “pay-what-you-can, watch-all-you-can, and workshop-all-you-can” strategy, festival-goers can catch free shows during CCP Pasinaya 2026, along with other performances and activities.
Pre-registration is now open at https://bit.ly/pasinaya2026. For more updates on CCP Pasinaya’s festival components, follow the CCP’s official accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. You may also visit its website (www.culturalcenter.gov.ph) to learn more about upcoming productions, workshops, and lectures.
