A Golden Partnership: MOWELFUND and City of Dreams Manila's Historic Collaboration with the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF) and the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF)

(L-R): Ms. Bing Viray, Project Director (Media Puzzle Holdings Corp.); Ms. Cherry Ann Carrera, President (Media Puzzle Holdings Corp.); Mr. Raul Putong, Chief Operating Officer (MIFF); Atty. Rochelle Macapili - Ona, Executive Director (MMFF); Chairman Romando S. Artes, Chairman (MMDA); Ms. Charisse Chuidian, Vice President for Public Relations (City of Dreams Manila); Ms. Boots Anson Roa, Chairwoman (MOWELFUND); Ms. Gina Alajar, Board Member (MOWELFUND); Mr. Joey Roa, Welfare Director (MOWELFUND); and Mr. Jim Baltazar, Director (CMB Film Services).

In a remarkable prelude to this year's much-anticipated Golden Celebration of the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), a ceremonial contract signing took place in City of Dreams Manila, signaling an important step in the partnership between the MMFF and the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF). This event not only marks a significant milestone for both organizations, but it also sets the tone for what is expected to be a historic year in the Philippine entertainment industry.

As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, the Metro Manila Film Festival has named City of Dreams Manila as its Official Event Partner for the Golden Gala on November 11, 2024. This prestigious collaboration with one of the country's top luxury resorts emphasizes the significance of the event, promising an unforgettable evening of glamour, entertainment, and philanthropy. The Golden Gala, held at City of Dreams Manila, will bring together a distinguished audience of celebrities, industry leaders, and influential figures to celebrate the best of Philippine cinema while also strengthening the country's ties to the global film community.

The Movie Workers Welfare Foundation, Inc. (MOWELFUND), a nonprofit that has spent the last 50 years advocating for the rights of underrepresented workers in the Philippine film industry, was notably present at the ceremonial signing. The significance of this event was further reinforced by Chairwoman Boots Anson Roa, Board Member Ms. Gina Alajar, and Welfare Director Mr. Joey Roa, who proudly represented MOWELFUND's commitment to social welfare, education, and the preservation of film heritage.

Key Panelists from MMFF and MOWELFUND together with their Brand Partners.

Prominent members of the Manila International Film Festival (MIFF), the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), and their initial roster of brand and media partners convened for the event. Among the notable attendees were Chairman Romando S. Artes from the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Atty. Rochelle Macapili-Ona, Executive Director of MMFF, Ms. Charisse Chuidian, Vice President for Public Relations of City of Dreams Manila, Mr. Raul Putong, Chief Operating Officer of MIFF, Mr. Jim Baltazar, Director for CMB Film Services, along with Ms. Cherry Ann Carrera, CEO of Media Puzzle Holdings Corp., and Ms. Bing Viray, Project Director for Media Puzzle Holdings Corp. The MMFF and MIFF also recognized their esteemed brand partners, including Shantal’s Beauty & Wellness Products, represented by CEO and Founder Ms. Rossel “Shantal” Dimayuga; Brenan Global, represented by CEO Ms. Brenda So; Wow Glow, owned by Ms. Mariz Villanueva and Mr. Vlad Villanueva; and Gluta Skin, represented by CEO Ms. Lira Lacsamana. Additionally, gratitude was extended to media partners such as PhilStar, Philippine Daily  Inquirer, MBC Media Group, Manila Times, and Manila Standard.

This ceremonial signing begins a new era for the Philippine entertainment industry. As we count down to the 50th edition of MMFF, we are on the verge of a historic moment that will not only celebrate Filipino cinema's rich heritage but also catapult it into international prominence. The MMFF 50th Golden Gala on November 11 at City of Dreams Manila promises to be more than just an event; it will be a watershed moment in the industry, brimming with glamour, prestige, and the power of Filipino artists. Join us as we remember the past, celebrate the present, and shape the future of Philippine cinema on a global scale.