The event was organized through the efforts of the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the General Directorate of Media Cooperation and Cyberspace of the Islamic Culture and Relations Organization, and with the participation of Soore Cinema Organization, Farabi Cinema Foundation, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and the Red Carpet of Shangri-La Edsa Cinema. The second Iranian Film Festival of 2025 was officially opened for the first time on Saturday, March 1, 2025, corresponding to 11 Esfand 1403, at Cinema Hall No. 3 of the Shangri-La Cinema in Manila, with the screening of the admirable film "In the Arms of the Tree" in the presence of Yousef Esmaeil Zadeh, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Philippines, Abdolmajid Abolghasemi, Cultural Counselor, Iranian residents, diplomats of some embassies, influential cultural figures, networks and institutions active in the field of women and family, and a group of cinema enthusiasts.

 

As the audience entered the cinema hall, video clips showcasing Iran's tourist attractions and the achievements of the glorious Islamic Republic of Iran were played.

The film festival officially began at 1:30 PM with the playing of the national anthems of the Philippines and Iran.

At the start, Ms. Zainab Javier, Secretary of the Philippines-Iran Women’s Friendship Association and host of this program, welcomed the Ambassador and Cultural Counselor of the Islamic Republic of Iran, prominent cultural figures, and guests. She expressed gratitude to the Philippine cultural institutions that collaborated with the Cultural Section of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in organizing the Iranian Film Festival 2025. She gave a brief introduction to Iranian cinema, stating that Iranian films have captivated numerous audiences at international festivals due to their thought-provoking stories, human relationships, and simple joys of life. Directors such as Majid Majidi, Asghar Farhadi, and others have produced films that have garnered significant awards at international festivals. She further highlighted that a new generation of Iranian women directors has also created remarkable works in Iranian cinema.

 

The host then invited Mr. Abolghasemi, the Cultural Counselor, to deliver his speech.

Mr. Abolghasemi began by extending a warm welcome and expressing his gratitude for the valuable cooperation and participation of Soore Cinema Organization, Farabi Cinema Foundation, the Red Carpet of Shangri-La Edsa Cinema, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts of the Philippines, the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and Philippine cultural institutions in organizing the second Iranian Film Festival in 2025. He also thanked the esteemed artists of Iran, who showcase the country’s rich culture to the world through their works.

 

He stated that this festival is a unique opportunity to become acquainted with the art of Iranian cinema and to gain a deeper understanding of its distinctive features and appeal, which have been recognized globally for many years. Iranian cinema, with its unique language and portrayal of societal realities, masterfully conveys human emotions and experiences. From unforgettable stories to artistic performances, from remarkable characters to skilled directors, all of these elements reflect the boundless potential of Iranian cinema.

He said that Iranian cinematic works, in addition to reflecting Iran’s culture, history, and traditions, convey important messages to the world with a humanistic and global perspective on various subjects such as social relationships, family, war, peace, love, and humanity.

He added that as Iranians, we have always believed that cinema is a universal language that can transcend borders and bring hearts closer together. Iranian films have been able to do well in this direction and have won prestigious awards at many international festivals. This festival is also an opportunity for us to showcase this universal language from a different angle and to non-Iranian audiences.

He expressed hope that by watching these films, in addition to enjoying the art and beauty of Iranian cinema, audiences will be able to gain a better understanding of the rich Iranian culture and civilization. and that this greater familiarity will lead to the expansion of cultural, social, and human relations between Iran and the Philippines.

In conclusion, he thanked all the attendees for their presence at the festival and their support of Iranian cinema. He expressed hope that more opportunities for cultural and artistic cooperation between Iran and the Philippines would arise in the future. Finally, he invited the esteemed guests to watch the acclaimed film In the Arms of the Tree, which has been showcased at various festivals.

After the Cultural Counselor of our country finished his speech, the movie "In the Arms of the Tree" was screened, which was met with applause and welcome from the audience. In the second screening, the animated movie "A Passenger from Ganora" was shown.

It is worth mentioning that the Iranian Film Festival in the Philippines will run from March 1 to March 3, showcasing six outstanding Iranian films: In the Arms of the Tree, A Passenger from Ganora, Captain, Goodbye Shirazi Girl, Fragrant, and Sima’s Unfinished Narrative over the course of three days.