Watch out for CINEPROD + PHOTO EXPO 2027 at the brand new SMXCITE in SM Mall of Asia scheduled for July 9-11, 2027 for The Philippines’ Premier Expo for Film, Photography, and Visual Storytelling!
CINEPROD + PHOTO EXPO 2027 was officially introduced to the media today at The Shooting Gallery Studio in Makati City. The launch brought together leaders from government agencies, policy bodies, academia, and the film and photography industries to witness a new national platform for Philippine creative industries. Scheduled for July 9–11, 2027, at SMXCITE Manila, the inaugural exhibition aims to connect established industry masters with the next generation of film students, indie filmmakers, and digital storytellers. The event is organized by Global-Link MP Events International, Inc., presented by CMB Film Services, and co-presented by JG Superstore, MQ Lighting, and Solid Video Corp. (SVC).
Empowering Next-Gen Talent and Building Future Pipelines
The event comes at a pivotal moment for the country’s creative economy as emerging technology and new media reshape visual storytelling.
CINEPROD + PHOTO EXPO 2027 serves as a vital bridge for local creators, providing direct access to modern gear, specialized skills, and professional networks. By engaging youth early and collaborating with development bodies like the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), the expo builds a sustainable talent pipeline for the country’s film and visual production ecosystem.
During the launch, Jim Baltazar of CMB Film Services shared the vision behind the initiative, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, while Kirk Baltazar presented the event concept as a creative incubator for new local works.
Elevating Local Stories and Attracting International Recognition
The media launch also highlighted how CINEPROD + PHOTO will elevate Philippine cinema and attract global attention to local talent. A central feature of the event is its strategic alignment with the Department of Tourism to discover film destinations across the Philippines and foster active collaboration between filmmakers, foreign crews, and tourism agencies. Under the theme “The Philippines Through the Lens,” the initiative showcases local culture and scenic locations to both domestic and international audiences.
Director-General Paolo Villaluna of the Film Academy of the Philippines contributed an industry perspective on talent development, professional growth and opportunities for Filipino filmmakers.
Adding an international perspective was Saul Molina, representing the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC), who traveled to the Philippines to participate in the media launch. His presence highlighted the value of international knowledge exchange and stronger connections between Filipino cinematographers and the global filmmaking community.
Representatives from JG Superstore, MQ Lighting and Solid Video Corp. also shared industry perspectives on evolving production technologies, equipment accessibility and the growing needs of filmmakers, photographers and contemporary media specialists.
Walid Wafik of SMXCITE Manila introduced the venue that will host the inaugural exhibition in July 2027. The 7,500 sq.m. exhibition is currently 80% occupied.
Hands-On Education, Industry Dialogue, and Looking Ahead to July 2027
Designed as an interactive learning and networking hub, the July 2027 expo will feature products across cinema optics, lighting, audio, and post-production software alongside film screenings, creator meet-and-greets, and special installations. Organizers are partnering with schools, guilds, and cultural bodies to deliver masterclasses and technical workshops for both veteran professionals and emerging artists.
A panel discussion co-moderated by Director General Paolo Villaluna and actress Iza Calzado brought together industry representatives for a conversation on the future of filmmaking, photography and content creation in the Philippines.
The discussion explored topics such as international collaboration, emerging technologies, professional training, changing market demands and the importance of creating more opportunities for industry engagement.
The launch also provided an opportunity to discuss how industry activities, including potential educational initiatives and smaller gatherings, could help sustain collaboration between major exhibitions.
Further announcements on participating brands, exhibition features, educational activities and visitor information will be released as preparations progress added Patrick-Lawrence Tan, CEO of Global-Link MP Events International, Inc., the show organizer.
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