MMDA to discuss lowering MMFF 2026 ticket prices with cinema exhibitors

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Atty. Don Artes has said that the agency will revisit discussions on lowering ticket prices of Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entries with cinema exhibitors. 

In a press conference on January 5, Artes responded to a question from the media if it would be possible to lower the ticket prices for MMFF 2026 as prices can be steep. 

Per Artes, there have been previous discussions with the Cinema Exhibitors Association of the Philippines (CEAP) about the matter. 

"Hindi pa lang siguro namin naupuan these past years, but now seriously are considering na i-request na sa kanila short of mandating siguro na irevisit yung presyo ng sine," he said. 

"Maybe this time we have to try a new formula. Baka naman 'yung ibabawas natin sa ticket price ay makuha natin in terms of volume, so pag-aaralan namin 'yan."

He said, however, that it is still a business decision for cinema owners whether to lower their ticket prices. 

"Alam naman natin may maintenance cost 'yan, may investment, may operating costs, so pagusapan namin seriously. Like any other Metro Manila FIlm Festival naman, after naman nag-re-revisit kami saan kami nagkamali, ano 'yung room for improvement," he noted. 

He added that these concerns are discussed with producers and stakeholders, and assured that these would be addressed. 

"Lagi naman kami nag-i-improve every time, so nakikita niyo naman siguro, again, ikaw na nga nagsabi, paganda nang paganda 'yung mga pelikula, so i-a-address namin lahat ng concerns," said Artes. 

The MMFF 2025 opened in Philippine cinemas on Christmas Day. Its run has been extended until January 14. 

—CDC, GMA Integrated News