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Bacolod City is getting ready for a milestone moment as it becomes one of the official co-hosts of the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) this December. It will be the first time in the festival's history that official host activities will extend beyond Metro Manila, giving regional audiences a bigger role in the annual celebration of Filipino films.

Mayor Greg Gasataya announced the development following the official launch of MMFF 2026. Bacolod joins San Juan and Mandaluyong as this year's host cities, marking a new chapter for the country's biggest film festival.

The city is targeting a December 11 kickoff, ahead of the opening of the 2026 Batang Pinoy National Championships on December 12, which Bacolod will also host. The schedule is expected to allow two weeks of MMFF-related activities without overlapping with the national sporting event.

Residents can expect a festive lineup that includes a celebrity motorcade, along with visits from Filipino actors, directors, and filmmakers who will meet with local movie fans. Organizers are also planning workshops and mentorship programs to help support and develop local filmmakers and creative talents.

According to organizers, Bacolod earned its spot as a co-host because of its strong box-office performance and the city's continued support for Filipino movies. The local government's efforts to strengthen its creative industry also played a key role, including the establishment of the Bacolod G-Hive, a hub that provides filmmakers and artists with free access to professional equipment and creative resources.

As final preparations continue between city officials and MMFF organizers, Bacolod is set to welcome the country's biggest stars and showcase that the passion for Philippine cinema thrives well beyond Metro Manila.