MANILA, Philippines — Six landmark Filipino films from 1976 are returning to the big screen as the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Second Golden Age of Philippine Cinema.

The films will be shown for free during the Philippine Film Industry Month 2026 Tribute Screenings and Film Talkbacks at FDCP Cinematheque Centres nationwide from September 5 to 26.

The lineup includes:

• Itim by Mike De Leon
• Insiang by Lino Brocka
• Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos by Mario O’Hara
• Minsa’y Isang Gamu-Gamo by Lupita Aquino-Kashiwahara
• Ganito Kami Noon… Paano Kayo Ngayon? by Eddie Romero
• Nunal sa Tubig by Ishmael Bernal

Released during a significant period in Philippine history, the films tackled poverty, war, colonialism, identity, faith and social inequality. Their filmmakers helped establish an era known for socially conscious storytelling and artistic experimentation.

Among the featured works, Brocka’s Insiang made history in 1978 as the first Filipino film selected for the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight. The film portrayed poverty, violence and betrayal in a densely populated Manila community.

Romero’s Ganito Kami Noon… Paano Kayo Ngayon? examined Filipino identity during the final years of Spanish colonial rule. O’Hara’s Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos, meanwhile, followed Filipinos facing difficult personal and moral choices during the Japanese occupation.

Aquino-Kashiwahara’s Minsa’y Isang Gamu-Gamo explored the effects of the American military presence in the Philippines, while De Leon’s Itim and Bernal’s Nunal sa Tubig demonstrated the visual and thematic range of Filipino cinema during the period.

The screenings will be accompanied by talkbacks designed to deepen public understanding of the films and their place in Philippine history.

The commemoration forms part of PFIM 2026, themed “Pelikula: Ginintuang Ikalawa.” The celebration will also feature restored classics, short-film programs, educational activities and events honoring members of the film industry.

Through the tribute screenings, the FDCP aims to introduce the classics to a new generation while recognizing the filmmakers whose work helped shape modern Philippine cinema.

Admission is free. Screening schedules and other details will be announced through the FDCP and its Cinematheque Centres.

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