Quezon City, a bustling hub of culture and innovation in the Philippines, has been honored with the title of UNESCO Creative City of Film. This prestigious designation places it among an elite global network, recognizing its vibrant film community and rich cinematic heritage. This achievement not only celebrates Quezon City’s contributions to the film industry but also opens new avenues for cultural exchange and economic growth.
Quezon City’s inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities of Film Network, which spans continents from Europe to the Americas, marks a milestone as one of the first Southeast Asian cities to receive this honor. The network began with Bradford, U.K., in 2009 and expanded with cities like Sydney, Busan, Galway, and Rome. In 2025, Quezon City and Giza, Egypt, were among the latest to join this prestigious group.
This recognition coincides with the city proudly adopting the mantle of QC Film City at this year’s QCinema International Film Festival. As the proclaimed heart of Philippine cinema, Quezon City celebrates its legacy of film excellence, reflecting on a history that includes legends such as Lino Brocka and Fernando Poe Jr., and contemporary creators who continue to shape its vibrant narrative.
“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,” stated Mayor Joy Belmonte. She commemorated the city’s rich cinematic past and highlighted the recognition’s tribute to both veteran and emerging talents.
With this designation, Quezon City aims to fortify labor protections for film industry workers through the Eddie Garcia Law, ensuring fair wages and secure working conditions. Plans are also underway to implement sustainable talent initiatives and seek further international recognition for the city’s filmmakers.
The Quezon City Film Commission, which led the charge for this recognition since 2023, has initiated key projects: the QC Screen Academy for public training in film development and production; the Global Producers Exchange for connecting regional producers; and the Southeast Asia Film Summit, an annual industry focal point for collaboration and growth.
QCFC executive director Liza Diño praised the achievement as a testament to years of collective effort, highlighting Mayor Belmonte’s visionary leadership. She noted, “This achievement is the culmination of years of collaboration, vision, and belief in the power of storytelling to shape our collective identity.”
Diño emphasized that the UNESCO designation is a call to embrace creative governance and cultural sustainability, declaring Quezon City’s readiness to foster collaboration and nurture a thriving community where creativity flourishes.
Mayor Belmonte highlighted that this accolade is just the beginning, with a continued commitment to supporting local film workers and enhancing residents’ access to quality films, ensuring Quezon City remains a beacon of cinematic innovation and cultural empowerment.
