The Cultural Center of the Philippines returns with its annual film competition. The 38th CCP Gawad Alternatibo opens in August 2026.
This year’s theme is Pag-aninag, or Reflecting the Light. The festival highlights stories about hope, memory, and struggle. It also explores dreams that connect people and communities.
Established in 1987, Gawad Alternatibo is the longest-running film competition in Southeast Asia. It showcases the best Philippine alternative cinema. Films compete in four major categories: Animation, Documentary, Experimental, and Narrative.
Now in its 38th year, the festival continues its mission. It provides a platform for new and established Filipino filmmakers. These artists challenge conventions. Their works spark critical reflection, cultural discourse, and social transformation.
A total of 54 finalist films made the official selection.
Fifteen films compete in the Animation category. Notable titles include “Ako ay May Lobo” by Siege Ledesma, “Bangungot” by Jam Lising, and “Silent Waltz” by Matthew Villamor Mapua.
The Documentary category features nine competing films. Entries include “Get Ready with Me” by Elvin Jay Macanlalay and “Hagonoy (To Cry Out)” by Giancarlo Santiago, Ayan Bautista, and Santiago Pantaleon.
Twelve films vie for prizes in the Experimental category. The selection includes “Cemented” by Justine Borlagdan and “Moosap (Memories of Old Sapangpalay)” by Edsel Gasmen.
The Narrative category features 18 competing films. Finalists include “City’s Laundry and Taxes” by Diana Galang, “Perslab” by Ronnie Ramos, and “The Red Banca” by Nena Jane Achacoso.
Festival organizers grouped the 54 finalist films into nine curated screening anthologies. These thematic sets include “Pagkamangha at Pag-unawa,” “Tahanan ay Kanlungan,” and “Kartograpiya ng Sarili.”
Other anthologies are “Hamon ng Panahon,” “Mga Hibla ng Pagsubok,” and “Mga Gunita ng Pagmamahal.” The remaining sets are “Ligaw sa Siyudad,” “Lampas sa Abot-tanaw,” and “Musikal.”
Six additional screening sets highlight special sections. These include Gawad Specials and the Children’s Section. They also feature the Best of the 37th Gawad Alternatibo across all four categories.
The 38th CCP Gawad Alternatibo runs from August 7 to 16, 2026. Screenings happen alongside Cinemalaya 2026.
Moviegoers can watch the films at two venues. Screenings take place at the Red Carpet Cinema at Shangri-La Plaza and Gateway Cineplex 18.
The festival hosts its awarding ceremony on August 13. All festival screenings are free and open to the public.
