All eight official entries of the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) grossed at least P1 million each on the first day of screening on December 25, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman and concurrent MMFF overall chair Atty. Don Artes said.

Artes said the milestone marks a first in MMFF history, with all participating films reaching the P1-million mark on opening day.

He added that the 2025 MMFF lineup is also set to be screened in Dubai and Hong Kong in January 2026, expanding the festival’s international reach.

The 51st MMFF ushered in what organizers described as a new era for Philippine cinema, recognizing Filipino creativity, talent, and cultural storytelling during the Gabi ng Parangal held Saturday night at the Dusit Thani Manila hotel in Makati.

In a recorded message, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to continue supporting the festival.

“Inaanyayahan ko ang lahat na suportahan at itaguyod ang ika-51 edisyon ng MMFF,” the President said.

Newly appointed MMDA General Manager Police General Nicolas Torre III, in his opening remarks, described Philippine films as “more than entertainment,” emphasizing their role in national unity and social purpose.

“Sa pamamagitan ng pelikulang Pilipino, maaari tayong magkaisa, magtulungan, at mas mahalin ang ating bansa,” he said.

Romance drama I’mPerfect topped the awards after winning Best Picture, Best Actress for Krystal Go, and Best Ensemble. Crime-thriller Manila’s Finest emerged as one of the biggest winners with eight awards, including Third Best Picture and Best Cinematography.

Each winner received a trophy designed by acclaimed artist Toym Imao. Winners were selected by the 2025 MMFF Board of Jurors chaired by Dr. Clodualdo del Mundo Jr.

The festival also paid tribute to the late National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, popularly known as Nora Aunor, through a performance by Jona.

The awards night was hosted by Enchong Dee, KaladKaren, Maoui David, and Michael Sager, with performances by Sofronio Vasquez, Angela Muji, and Rabin Angeles.

Organized by the MMDA, the MMFF aims to promote and preserve Philippine cinema. Festival proceeds benefit industry groups including 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.

The MMFF runs in cinemas nationwide until 7 January 2026.