The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival has officially named seven filmmakers who will each receive a P5 million production grant for its 2026 edition. It is the festival’s biggest support package so far and proof that Puregold is serious about uplifting Filipino storytellers.
The announcement took place at Gateway Cineplex 18 where anticipation filled the room long before the names were called.
The chosen seven: Joseph Abello with “Wantawsan,” BC Amparado with “Mono No Aware,” Thop Nazareno with “Apol of My Ai,” creative duo Carl Joseph Papa and Ian Pangilinan with “Patay Gutom: Dead Hungry,” Lawrence Fajardo with “Beast,” Mikko Baldoza with “Stuck on You,” and Rodina Singh with “Multwoh: Patay na Patay Sa’yo.”
Each recipient walked away holding not an ordinary certificate but a giant Puregold grocery receipt. The cheeky gesture served as a reminder of what CinePanalo stands for.
Puregold built its success by being a household partner to everyday Filipinos. Through this festival, that same spirit now extends to filmmakers whose stories reflect that very community.
“The upcoming 2026 Puregold CinePanalo is going to be the festival’s biggest installment yet,” says Puregold Senior Marketing Manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad. “It was only right that we revealed the Top 7 films with a splash of our own.”
Festival director Chris Cahilig said they are looking at their strongest lineup yet. He guaranteed movies that will bring out emotions from every corner. From lighthearted fare to more daring themes, the mix promises something for every viewer.
“Puregold CinePanalo is giving its biggest grants to date, largesse that all seven participants truly deserve by showing us the passion, creativity, and ‘panalo sa husay’ spirit that only Filipino filmmakers can bring,” festival director Chris Cahilig says. “These films are going to make audiences laugh, cry, and everything in between. We can hardly wait for audiences to see what lies ahead at the festival.”
Now on its third year, Puregold CinePanalo continues to expand its reach and reputation. Many of its previous films have already traveled abroad, showing that homegrown features can compete on the world stage.
“Puregold has always believed in the power of supporting and nurturing Filipino artists,” says Hayagan-Piedad. “It is one of Puregold’s greatest prides that CinePanalo has grown to this level and given so many Filipino filmmakers the chance to produce world-class movies. We have no doubt that the seven films competing next year will be no exception.”
The 2026 Puregold CinePanalo will be held next year at the Gateway Cineplex 18 and Ayala Malls.
For more information on the Puregold CinePanalo, you may stay updated through the official Festival Facebook page at facebook.com/puregoldcinepanalo
