Big stars in CinePanalo 2025 trailers spark excitement

Filipino cinephiles are buzzing with excitement as the first trailers for Puregold CinePanalo 2025's films drop online. With big names like Janella Salvador, RK Bagatsing, Jameson Blake, Alexa Ilacad, KD Estrada, and Khalil Ramos leading the lineup, the festival promises a star-studded showcase of diverse narratives that range from romance and drama to sports, mystery, and documentary.

"The trailers are just a glimpse of the powerful and deeply moving stories that the festival has to offer. Each film brings a unique voice, a fresh perspective, and a compelling narrative that deserves to be experienced on the big screen," said Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, Puregold senior marketing manager and festival chair.

In "Co-Love," starring Jameson Blake, KD Estrada, Alexa Ilacad, and Kira Balinger, two pairs of online influencers are entangled in fierce competition and acrimonious breakups.

"Fleeting" features Janella Salvador and RK Bagatsing in a story that explores chemistry and tension, set against the stunning backdrop of Mati, Davao Oriental.

The film marks Catsi Catalan's feature-length directorial debut.

"Olsen's Day" sees Khalil Ramos in the titular role, reflecting on life, family, and the future during a road trip. Directed by JP Habac, the film offers a poignant journey that many can relate to.

"Tigkiliwi," written and directed by Tara Illenberger, presents eerie and foreboding scenes filled with grief, graveyards, and talk of a sinister flesh-eating creature, delving into the darker aspects of the Filipino psyche.

"Salum," helmed by TM Malones, follows a scallop diver's quest for treasures of the sea to support his struggling family. The film's dramatic plot and breathtaking underwater sequences are set to captivate viewers.

"Journeyman" offers a fresh take on the classic sports narrative, with JC Santos portraying a boxer known as a "professional loser" who takes intentional dives in his fights. Directed by Christian Paolo and Dominic Lat, the film promises to be one of the festival's most gripping entries.

"Sepak Takraw" highlights sports from a youthful perspective, following two brothers who join the same team playing the titular sport. Director Mes de Guzman uses the fast-paced game to explore themes of family and cultural identity.

Meanwhile, the documentary "Food Delivery: Fresh from the West Philippine Sea," directed by Baby Ruth Villarama, has been withdrawn from the festival.

In a joint statement, CinePanalo festival director Chris Cahilig and Villarama said, "We regret to confirm that 'Food Delivery, Fresh from the West Philippine Sea' has been pulled out from the CinePanalo Festival. While the decision was made jointly by the festival organizers and film creators, it is clear that external factors played a role in this outcome."

All full-length films and student short selections will screen exclusively at Gateway Cineplex 18 from March 14 to 25. Advance ticket booking is available at www.gatewaycineplex18.com.