A NEW CHAPTER IN in Philippine cinema has begun. Quezon City, the heart of the country’s film heritage, has been officially designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as a Creative City of Film—one of only a few Southeast Asian cities to receive such global distinction.
The recognition affirms what many already believe — that Quezon City is not only the country’s administrative and cultural capital but also the beating heart of its film industry.
FILIPINO STORYTELLING
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) celebrates urban centers that integrate creativity and culture into sustainable development. With Quezon City’s inclusion, the Philippines joins a prestigious circle of 408 cities worldwide that use arts and innovation to drive progress and foster inclusion.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay said, “Creative Cities demonstrate that culture and creative industries are powerful engines of development. By welcoming new cities, we strengthen a network where creativity supports local initiatives, attracts investment, and promotes social cohesion.”
This year’s announcement also marks a milestone, as UNESCO introduces “Architecture” as a new creative field, joining seven existing categories — Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music.
OFFICIALLY A FILM CITY
For years, Quezon City has been nurturing its film ecosystem through festivals, talent programs, and incentives. Now, under Mayor Joy Belmonte’s leadership, its dream of becoming a global creative hub has become reality.
“QC Film City is now a name that will forever be etched in the legacy of every filmmaker, artist, and storyteller who has shaped our city’s vibrant film heritage,” said Mayor Belmonte. “From the golden era of Sampaguita Pictures to today’s new generation of creators, this recognition honors them all.”
Belmonte emphasized that the recognition also belongs to the city’s film workers—camera operators, editors, writers, and every QCitizen who supports the art. “Today, we celebrate a big achievement in Philippine cinema—but the work starts again tomorrow,” she said.
CREATIVE GOVERNANCE
Behind Quezon City’s successful bid is the Quezon City Film Commission (QCFC), which led the application to UNESCO in 2023.
QCFC Executive Director Liza Diño described the achievement as “the culmination of years of collaboration, vision, and belief in the power of storytelling to shape our collective identity.”
“This is not just recognition,” Diño added. “It is a call to deepen our commitment to creative governance and cultural sustainability. Creativity is not an afterthought of governance—it is its very soul.”
LOCAL FILM WORKERS
The UNESCO designation also comes with a commitment to protect and professionalize the city’s film industry. Among the upcoming initiatives are:
QC Screen Academy – a public, industry-supported training hub for skills development in film production, marketing, and distribution.
Global Producers Exchange (GPX) – a platform connecting producers from Southeast Asia and UNESCO Creative Cities to collaborate and share insights.
Southeast Asia Film Summit – an annual event gathering policymakers, film commissions, and industry leaders to discuss regulation, incentives, and financing.
These programs aim to strengthen local talent, ensure fair wages and safe working conditions under the Eddie Garcia Law, and create sustainable opportunities for filmmakers.
GLOBAL PH CINEMA
Quezon City’s inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network reinforces the Philippines’ long-standing legacy in film—home to icons such as Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Nora Aunor, Dolphy, and Fernando Poe Jr.
As part of a global network that includes creative cities like Busan, Sydney, and Rome, Quezon City is poised to represent the Filipino voice in world cinema.
“This recognition tells the world that Filipino creativity knows no bounds,” said Diño. “We are ready to open our doors to collaboration and build a city where stories thrive and creativity empowers every citizen.”
FUTURE LEGACY
The designation marks not just an honor, but a long-term commitment to cultural sustainability. Through education, partnerships, and inclusive development, Quezon City aims to make film not just an art form—but a driving force for progress.
With its new role as UNESCO’s Creative City of Film, Quezon City has stepped into the global spotlight—bringing with it the creativity, resilience, and soul of the Filipino storyteller.