Baguio as film tourism destination? This festival hopes to make it happen

More than just an arts event, the Montañosa Film Festival aims to elevate Baguio City’s creative industry and promote film tourism in the Cordillera

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Montañosa Film Festival (MFF) is taking a bold leap forward in its fifth year by launching its first-ever Cinema Open Film Competition, a groundbreaking move that cements the festival’s role as a premier platform for Filipino storytelling.

With over 230 participants from across the Philippines, this competition showcases the country’s diverse cinematic voices, offering a national stage for filmmakers to share their stories. 

Unlike in previous years, where participants had to submit proposals before creating their films, this year’s competition welcomes completed films, categorized into four sections: Narrative, Mobile, Documentary, and Experimental.

Festival founder and director Ferdinand Balanag describes this evolution as a way to push the boundaries of cinema.

“Cinema is a constantly expanding force, like the waves of water or the echoes in the mountains. It shapes perspectives and inspires change,” he said. “This year’s festival is a celebration of storytelling in all its forms and an invitation for audiences to embrace diverse voices and narratives.”

Growing hub 

Beyond the competition, MFF 2025 expands its offerings with new and exciting events.

One of the most anticipated additions is the Animation Festival, a collaboration with the Cordillera School of Digital Arts (CSDA), designed to highlight the creativity of local and regional animators.

Another major highlight is Sinemusikain, a month-long festival combining film, music, and food. This event features free film screenings, live concerts, and a vibrant food fair, creating a unique cultural experience that appeals to cinephiles, music lovers, and food enthusiasts alike.

“The Montañosa Film Festival is a holistic platform. It’s not just about showcasing films; it’s about nurturing new talents, building a creative community, and promoting film tourism in the Cordillera,” Balanag emphasized.

BIG PLANS. Montañosa Film Festival founder Ferdinand Balanag shares the festival’s bold new vision during the media launch.

Homegrown talent on global stage

Since its inception, the MFF has been instrumental in the production of 58 locally made films, many of which have earned national and international recognition. 

Some of these works have reached global audiences, bridging cultural gaps and shining a spotlight on Filipino talent and indigenous narratives.

Notable filmmakers who have emerged from the MFF include:

• Jonathan Jurilla, who won both the MFF 2023 Narrative Film Competition and the MFF 2024 Documentary Film Competition. His award-winning film Love Child—an adaptation of his MFF documentary My Boy Superman — was a Cinemalaya finalist and even became a Netflix hit, staying in the top 10 most-watched films in the Philippines for over a month.
• Julius Lumiqued, whose adaptation of Amador Daguio’s short story The Wedding Dance was a Cinemalaya finalist. His work compellingly explores Cordilleran marriage traditions and societal expectations through film.

Cultivating young filmmakers 

MFF is not just a festival, it’s a movement that empowers young filmmakers. It has forged partnerships with educational institutions in Baguio, including:

• University of Baguio
• Saint Louis University
• University of the Cordilleras
• Pines City National High School
• Baguio City National High School

Through these collaborations, MFF conducts film screenings, workshops, and discussions, giving aspiring filmmakers hands-on experience and exposure to industry professionals.

MFF 2025 also promises a spectacular lineup of events leading up to its culmination:

• March 26 – Grand opening ceremony at SM City Baguio
• March 27-28 – Cinema open premiere and exclusive screenings at SM Cinemas
• March 27 – International film festival launch, featuring films in partnership with various embassies, including: Riki Rhino (world premiere), Woman from Rote Island (premiere screening). Wayang: Shadow of the Night (short film from the Indonesian Embassy)
• March 30 – Awards Ceremony, recognizing outstanding films and filmmakers
• April 6 – Folk Music Festival at Rose Garden, celebrating the intersection of cinema and the Cordillera’s rich musical heritage

Baguio as film tourism destination

MFF is more than just an arts event; it is a cultural force that elevates Baguio City’s creative industry. 

As a UNESCO Creative City, Baguio has become a thriving hub for artistic innovation, fostering sustainable tourism and cultural preservation.

“At the core of MFF’s mission is promoting film tourism for the Cordillera region, positioning it as a prime tourist destination while emphasizing the region’s cultural and creative wealth,” Balanag stated.

By bringing together filmmakers, musicians, and cultural advocates, the Montañosa Film Festival continues to solidify Baguio’s reputation as a center for diverse storytelling, artistic excellence, and cultural exchange. – Rappler.com