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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies at Work devider Japanese Film Festival 2025 opens with celebration of cinematic heritage

Japanese Film Festival 2025 opens with celebration of cinematic heritage

Published Sep 22, 2025 09:43 am
Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission Kenichi Matsuda of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines
Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission Kenichi Matsuda of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines
On Sept. 18, 2025, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission Kenichi Matsuda of the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines graced the opening night of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2025, held at the Shangri-La Plaza Grand Atrium in Mandaluyong City. Organized annually by the Japan Foundation Manila (JFM), the event drew distinguished guests including JFM Director Ben Suzuki, Shangri-La Plaza Retail Operations Head Johnny Rios, and Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Acting Executive Director Rachelle Villanueva.
In his welcome remarks, Minister Matsuda highlighted the power of cinema to foster cultural understanding and strengthen the bonds between Japan and the Philippines. “Sa tawa man o sa luha, sama-sama nating ipagdiwang ang mahika ng sine,” he said, inviting the audience to embrace the emotional journey of the films—“whether through laughter or tears, together let us celebrate the magic of cinema.”
Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission Kenichi Matsuda of the Embassy of Japan was joined by JFM Director Ben Suzuki, Shangri-La Plaza Retail Operations Head Johnny Rios, and FDCP Acting Executive Director Rachelle Villanueva, along with some distinguished guests.
Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission Kenichi Matsuda of the Embassy of Japan was joined by JFM Director Ben Suzuki, Shangri-La Plaza Retail Operations Head Johnny Rios, and FDCP Acting Executive Director Rachelle Villanueva, along with some distinguished guests.
This year’s festival opened with the 4K restored screening of Iwai Shunji’s 1995 romantic drama Love Letter, a beloved classic in Japanese cinema. The 2025 line-up features a diverse selection of films, ranging from Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai and animated masterpieces such as Spirited Away and Ghost in the Shell, to contemporary titles including Evil Does Not Exist and Cells at Work.
Formerly known as EIGASAI, the Japanese Film Festival is among the most anticipated cultural events in the Philippines, with screenings scheduled in Manila, Baguio, Davao, Cebu, and Angeles. Admission is free, and the festival will run in partner cinemas nationwide until Oct. 26, 2025.
For ticketing information and the complete screening schedule, visit the official JFF website: https://japanesefilmfestph.jfmo.org.ph
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