QUEZON CITY’S UNESCO CITY OF FILM CAMPAIGN GAINS SUPPORT FROM SPAIN

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — As the UNESCO Creative Cities Network prepares to announce its newest members, Quezon City—through the visionary support of Mayor Joy Belmonte—is strengthening its bid for the coveted City of Film designation through close cultural and industry partnerships with Spain’s leading film hubs.

Since launching its campaign, the Quezon City Film Commission (QCFC), led by Executive Director Liza Diño, has forged strong connections with the UNESCO Cities of Film Terrassa and Valladolid. These ties were made possible through Instituto Cervantes Manila and its Cultural Manager José Fons Guardiola, with the support of the Spanish Embassy.

“Terrassa UNESCO City of Film is proud to endorse Quezon City’s pursuit of the prestigious title,” said Jordi Hernàndez, Director at the Terrassa City Council. “It will also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and cultural exchange, enhancing the visibility of Filipino talent and creativity on the world stage.”

Loreto Arenales Gomez, Director of the Valladolid Film Commission, echoed this support:

“[The UNESCO Film City designation] strengthens the municipal policy of cultural and creative industries, and gives special priority to the audiovisual sector. We strongly believe Quezon City deserves the same scope, as it is a vibrant global creative hub for filmmaking, taking up valuable space in the international market.”

Mayor Joy Belmonte underscored how these international alliances fuel the city’s creative ambitions:

“Quezon City’s story is one of creativity, resilience, and global ambition. The support of our Spanish partners shows the world that our vision resonates far beyond our borders. This is the kind of collaboration that will strengthen our creative industries and bring new opportunities to our filmmakers.”

The Philippines holds a unique position in Asia as one of the few countries with enduring cultural, linguistic, and creative connections to Spain. These shared sensibilities and artistic traditions make collaborations between the two countries not only natural, but rich with potential.

For Diño, Quezon City is actively pursuing this long-standing connection to explore new avenues of co-production, cultural exchange, and creative industry growth:

“Our partnership with Spain is built on trust, shared passion for cinema, and a mutual respect for each other’s stories. These affinities give us a natural foundation to work together, and Spain has been an invaluable partner in helping us showcase Quezon City’s creativity on the world stage.”

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network recognizes cities that place creativity and culture at the heart of their development strategies. If selected, Quezon City would join an elite group of global Cities of Film, further cementing its status as the Philippines’ cultural and cinematic capital.

“We’re making sure Quezon City isn’t just the heart of Philippine cinema,” Diño added, “but also a key player in film worldwide.”

—

For more information and updates on Quezon City's bid and international activities, please contact [email protected].