The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) is ushering in its 51st edition with the much-awaited Parade of the Stars on 19 December, a spectacle that will transform the streets of Makati into a vibrant celebration of Filipino filmmaking. This marks the city’s first time hosting the iconic festival kick-off, adding fresh energy to a tradition beloved by moviegoers nationwide.

A grand showcase of the 2025 MMFF lineup

This year’s parade will spotlight the eight official entries of the 51st MMFF: Call Me Mother, Rekonek, Manila’s Finest, Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins, I’m Perfect, Love You So Bad, Unmarry, and Bar Boys: After School.

Each film will be represented by elaborately designed floats carrying their respective cast members—an annual highlight for fans excited to see their favorite stars up close.

The Parade of the Stars serves as the festival’s official launch before entries begin screening across the country on Christmas Day. For audiences eager to reconnect with the magic of Filipino cinema, the event promises a festive prelude filled with color, creativity, and star power.

'A new era for Philippine cinema'

MMDA and Concurrent MMFF Overall Chairman Atty. Don Artes expressed the festival’s excitement in bringing the parade to Makati for the very first time.

“We are excited to share the celebration with the people in Makati City for the first time. The upcoming 51st Parade of Stars will be another memorable occasion to mark this year’s theme: A New Era for Philippine Cinema,” said Artes.

His statement reflects the festival’s renewed efforts to revitalize the industry and expand its reach, marking this year’s edition as a milestone moment.

The parade route: 8.4 kilometers of festive spectacle

The floats will gather at Macapagal Boulevard at 1 p.m. before embarking on an 8.4-kilometer route. The procession will pass through Buendia Avenue, Ayala Avenue, Makati Avenue, J.P. Rizal Street, and A. Reyes Avenue.

The parade will culminate at Circuit Makati, where fans can enjoy a meet-and-greet with the stars, followed by a program filled with performances and festivities. The entire parade is expected to run for one hour and 40 minutes.

Motorists are advised to avoid the designated route and plan their schedules accordingly to prevent traffic disruptions.

Supporting the film community

Beyond entertainment, the MMFF continues its mission to support and uplift the Philippine film industry. Proceeds from the festival will benefit key organizations, including the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (Mowelfund), the Film Academy of the Philippines, the Motion Picture Anti-Film Piracy Council, the Optical Media Board, and the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP).

The MMFF Parade of Stars remains a beacon of unity, celebration, and creativity—ushering in the holiday season with a renewed appreciation for homegrown talent and the evolving landscape of Philippine cinema.