”2 Valid IDs,” top-billed by Pokwang, has emerged as the frontrunner at the 22nd Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival after dominating ticket sales across multiple venues.
Based on official sales figures released on August 14, the film secured the top spot across major Metro Manila theaters, including Shangri-La Plaza, Gateway Cineplex 18, Glorietta, Trinoma, Market! Market!, Circuit Makati, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay.
The Ruby Ruiz-starrer “Status: Rejected” placed as the primary contender, drawing strong attendance and claiming top spots across various screening locations.
Meanwhile, “Mag-iina”—featuring an ensemble cast including Janine Gutierrez, Lucas Andalio, Cherry Pie Picache, Agot Isidro, Ness Roque, and Jackie Lou Blanco—alongside Martin del Rosario and Miguel Odron’s “Tayo Lang Ang Nakakaalam,” both consistently ranked within the Top 4 across several theaters.
Other entries in the nine-film full-length competition, such as “Ganggang” and “A.Ni.Mal.”, also posted solid figures in select venues. The main competition lineup is completed by “Hand of God,” “Tirik,” and “Kaka Sa Yawan.”
The impressive turnout for “2 Valid IDs” and “Status: Rejected” has heightened excitement for the acting categories, putting both Pokwang and Ruiz in spotlight contention ahead of the awards ceremony.
The Cinemalaya 2026 awards night takes place on August 17 at 7 p.m. at the Grand Atrium of Shangri-La Plaza.