Metro Manila, Philippines – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said ticket sales for the Metro Manila Film Festival are expected to improve in the coming days following the awards night and the extended holiday break, even as early figures show slightly slower growth compared to last year.
MMDA Chairman Don Artes said in a text message to NewsWatch Plus that the initial turnout remains encouraging, noting that all official MMFF entries surpassed ₱1 million in ticket sales on their first day in cinemas.
“So far, ticket sales are just a little lower compared to last year, but we expect them to pick up after the awards night and during the long holiday break,” Artes said.
“The good thing is that all films broke ₱1 million in sales on the first day alone, which is a good indication that no movie will lose money,” he added.
Meanwhile, MMFF spokesperson Manuel Noel Ferrer said official rankings or box office totals will not be released, citing an agreement with producers.
“The MMFF Executive Committee refrains from disclosing official rankings and box office grosses, as per our agreement with the producers, in order to mitigate the bandwagon effect that may potentially impact the performance of our entries,” Ferrer said in a Facebook post.
He instead urged moviegoers to watch and support all participating films, especially as cinemas remain busy during the holiday season.
“Instead, we encourage the public to experience and support all the films showcased in this year’s MMFF, thereby demonstrating your unwavering love and appreciation for the Philippine film industry,” Ferrer said.
“With the long holiday still ongoing, we look forward to seeing more audiences in cinemas,” he said.
The MMFF traditionally enjoys a surge in ticket sales after the annual awards night, as winning films often gain renewed attention from audiences during the remaining days of the festival run.
