BACOLOD CITY, Philippines (August 2026) – Local storytellers have a chance to turn their cinematic dreams into reality as the city rolls out a major funding initiative for homegrown filmmakers. The third Bacolod Film Festival officially opened its call for entries, inviting local directors and writers to showcase the shifting identity of the City of Smiles.
Organizers are looking for eight to 10 finalist projects to receive a production grant of PHP 100,000 (approx. $1,724) each. Aside from the financial backing, chosen teams will undergo technical mentoring, script consultations, and production workshops with industry experts.
How to qualify for the grant
The competition is open to filmmakers who are registered voters and residents of Bacolod City. The rules require that directors and at least 50% of their creative and technical crew call the city home. Additionally, the short films must be shot within the city limits and integrate three to five local heritage elements, such as historical landmarks, regional food, or local traditions.
This year’s theme, “Pag-angot: Celebrating Heritage, Shaping Our Future,” tasks creators with documenting the changing face of the city. Festival Director Tanya Lopez mentioned that with new buildings rising and older structures fading, the festival serves as a vital way to preserve these shifts for future generations.
Dates and big surprises to watch out for
The deadline for submitting entries is Aug. 21, 2026. The completed short films will make their official premiere during the main festival run from Nov. 27 to 29, 2026.
The local cinema scene is getting an extra boost this year. Under City Ordinance No. 1061, authored by Councilor Em Ang, the city wants to create a steady career pipeline for Pinoy directors and crew members. Local creators can now also access The Studio at G-Hive in Barangay Mansilingan, a multimedia facility equipped with tools for animators and digital artists.
To top it off, local movie fans will get a special treat later this year. The city is set to host the first official Metro Manila Film Festival Parade and Roadshow held outside Metro Manila on Dec. 11, 2026.
