'Bawal umiyak, bes': Micro-theater Cinema '76 in San Juan to shut down

For avid and casual movie fans, Cinema '76 Film Society in San Juan City is one of the few go-to venues to catch films not usually shown in commercial theaters.

The microcinema is managed by the film production company TBA Studios, which is behind the movies I'm Drunk, I Love You; Birdshot; Heneral Luna; and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral, among others.

The COVID-19 pandemic, however, crippled the film industry including big and small movie houses as public gatherings are prohibited for health and safety reasons.

Unfortunately, microcinemas don't have the means to stay afloat during these difficult times.

In October last year, Cinema Centenario in Maginhawa, Quezon City shut down permanently citing safety and sustainability as reasons behind the decision.

On Friday (September 10), Cinema '76 announced the closure of its San Juan theater on September 15.

“Our first micro-cinema branch, which opened in 2016, became a haven for film-makers, producers, and film fans looking for a home,” Cinema '76 said in a statement.

“Our hearts may be heavy, but we know that this is not goodbye. We believe in the resiliency of creatives in the industry. We believe in the passion of Filipino movie fans. Magkakasama-sama din tayo ulit sa loob ng sinehan.”

Many were saddened by the cinema's closure including Kapuso actress and Nagbabagang Luha star Glaiza De Castro who left a crying face emoji on the comment section of the venue's Instagram page.

Management will retain the cinema's branch in Anonas, Quezon City, and will resume operations once everything returns back to normal.

Thank you for the memories, Cinema '76 San Juan!

In the meantime, here are other popular businesses around Metro Manila that closed down in the wake of the pandemic.