QCinema Industry 2026 returns with Quark Henares at the helm
The festival’s industry platform unveils new forums, masterclasses, global collaborations, and a film pitching event ahead of its November return.
The festival’s industry platform unveils new forums, masterclasses, global collaborations, and a film pitching event ahead of its November return.
QCinema/Facebook
The QCinema International Film Festival is returning from 14 to 23 November 2026, and bringing back its major behind-the-scenes platform: QCinema Industry 2026. Taking place from 18 to 20 November, this gather-up brings filmmakers, producers, cultural groups, and international partners together to share ideas, build connections, and boost the screen industry across the Philippines and Asia.
Leading the program this year as the newly named Head of QCinema Industry is acclaimed filmmaker and producer Quark Henares. Having taken part in the festival over the years as a sponsor, panelist, juror, and DJ, Henares expressed his excitement about officially joining the team and rolling out big plans for this year's edition.
This year’s program drops technical jargon in favor of real, practical learning and collaboration.
Replacing the former Asian Next Wave Film Forum is ScreenQC Talks, a new discussion series where creative leaders explore where movie-making is headed across art, technology, and business. Non-fiction storytelling also gets its own spotlight through Dokyu Days, a special forum focused entirely on the craft and real-world challenges of making documentary films.
For those looking to learn from top experts, the event will host masterclasses led by acclaimed local and international film practitioners, alongside detailed case studies that take a deep look into how notable movies were actually made.
Quezon City is using its role as a UNESCO Creative City of Film to host two major roundtable discussions. The first gathers creative cities from around the Philippines to discuss how arts and culture can power local economies. The second brings together Asian film cities—including Busan, Ho Chi Minh City, Yamagata, and Qingdao—to share strategies on building sustainable film communities.
Finally, filmmakers will have a chance to turn their ideas into reality through DGPI Pitch: X-Pand. This pitching event gives creators a platform to present their movie projects directly to local and international industry professionals, including confirmed representatives from Bangkok and Vietnam.
Details on the open call for pitch submissions and the full event lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.
