Quezon City has been officially recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Film, becoming one of the first cities in Southeast Asia to receive the designation.

The recognition highlights city’s contributions to Philippine cinema and its efforts to promote creativity, fair labor practices, and cultural innovation in the film industry.

It also cements the city’s position as the country’s film capital, home to major studios, filmmakers, and cultural institutions.

As part of its inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Quezon City will strengthen policies for film workers, such as enforcing the Eddie Garcia Law to ensure safe working conditions and fair compensation.

The city will also expand programs for skills development and international collaboration to support local filmmakers.

Mayor Joy Belmonte said the recognition honors the legacy of Filipino artists and filmmakers.

“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. From the golden era of Sampaguita Pictures and the brilliance of icons like Lino Brocka, Dolphy, Nora Aunor, and Fernando Poe Jr., to the new generation of creators bringing our stories to life today—this recognition honors each and every one of them,” Belmonte said.

“This is for the workers behind the screen and the QCitizens who deserve access to quality films. Today, we celebrate a big achievement in Philippine cinema, but the work starts again tomorrow,” she said.

The recognition follows Quezon City’s earlier declaration as the “Heart of Philippine Cinema” and its adoption of the theme “QC Film City” for this year’s QCinema International Film Festival.

The Quezon City Film Commission (QCFC), which led the city’s application in 2023, will implement several projects under the new designation, including the QC Screen Academy, a training hub for film professionals; the Global Producers Exchange (GPX), a collaborative platform for producers from Southeast Asia and UNESCO Creative Cities; and the Southeast Asia Film Summit, an annual event for regional policymakers and film industry leaders.

QCFC Executive Director Liza Diño said the achievement reflects the city’s long-term vision for creative governance.

“This is not just a recognition of what we have achieved—it is a call to deepen our commitment to creative governance and cultural sustainability. We are ready to take on this responsibility, to open our doors to collaboration, and to continue building a city where stories thrive and creativity empowers every citizen,” she said.

Quezon City joins more than 50 cities worldwide recognized by UNESCO for using creativity as a driver of sustainable urban development.