Moviegoers can expect more affordable cinema tickets during this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), after organizers announced a price cap for entries in the annual event.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Don Artes, who also serves as overall chairman of the MMFF, said Tuesday that ticket prices for the 2026 festival will be capped at ₱299.

The reduced rate will apply to all official entries of the 52nd MMFF, which runs from December 2026 to January 2027.

Artes clarified that the ₱299 ceiling represents only the maximum ticket price, noting that admission could be cheaper in some areas.

“The ₱299 is only the maximum price. Ticket prices can still go lower, especially in the provinces, depending on the decision of theater owners, CEAP and the producers,” he said.

Organizers said the move aims to encourage more Filipinos to return to cinemas and support local films during the festival season.

Meanwhile, the first batch of official entries for the 52nd MMFF was unveiled on July 7, featuring a mix of genres and high-profile stars.

Among the highlights is “The GrEATest SHOWdown,” starring box-office comedians Vice Ganda and Vic Sotto. The film is directed by Jun Robles Lana and marks a highly anticipated collaboration between the two veteran entertainers.

The MMFF, held annually during the Christmas season, is one of the country’s biggest film events, showcasing Filipino talent and boosting the local movie industry.