CEAP Reports Strong Turnout for First Filipino National Cinema Day

# What happened

# Scale and partners

# Ticketing and programming

For ₱100 moviegoers could access a lineup that included current theatrical releases and selected past titles. Advance ticket sales opened a few days prior through participating cinema box offices, official websites, mobile apps, and authorized ticketing platforms where offered. The promotion applied to Regular 2D cinema schedules and was subject to MTRCB classifications and theater capacity rules.

# Public response and participation

CEAP described the turnout as strong, highlighting packed theaters and groups of families and friends attending together. The association framed the day as both a thank-you to audiences and a way to remind Filipinos of the communal elements of theatrical viewing—shared anticipation, laughter, and emotional reactions.

Local artists and cinema advocates took part in promotion and on-site activities. Named supporters included Anne Curtis, Bella Padilla, Barbie Forteza, Karylle, Sassa Gurl, Michael Sager, Anton Vinzon, and Mon Confiado. Bella Padilla was noted as having visited multiple cinemas during the day.

# Why CEAP organized the day

CEAP presented National Cinema Day as a response to the twin challenges that affected theatrical attendance: the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid growth of streaming services. The one-day pricing and publicity push were intended to remind audiences of the distinct experience that cinemas offer and to stimulate a renewed habit of going to theaters.

# What CEAP aims to do next

Following the event, CEAP said it remains committed to developing more initiatives that support the theatrical sector and enhance the moviegoing experience. The association framed NCD as opening opportunities to bring audiences back to cinemas and create new ways to celebrate film in public venues.

# Practical points for moviegoers

• Tickets were subject to MTRCB classifications and seating capacity, so popular screenings could sell out.
• Advance purchase channels included box offices, official cinema websites and apps, and authorized ticketing partners where available.

# Bottom line

National Cinema Day was a coordinated, one-day effort by CEAP and partner organizations to offer low-cost access to theatrical screenings and to boost in-person attendance. CEAP reported wide participation and strong audience response and indicated plans for further initiatives aimed at sustaining moviegoing in the Philippines.