13 Extraordinary Movies Set In The Philippines That Will Inspire You To Visit!

The Philippines have a lot to offer for both national and international filmmakers. The archipelagic country has both modern cityscapes, along with spectacular history and a rich cultural tapestry. It is also well known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. So it will come as no surprise that there are so many wonderful movies set in the Philippines.

The Philippines is one of the most unique countries located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with pristine beaches, lush forests, and stunning mountain ranges. The country is also home to a vibrant culture, with a unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, and American influences. If you’re considering a trip to the Philippines, you’ll find plenty of reasons to visit, from its delicious cuisine to its welcoming and friendly people.

If you can’t make it to the Philippines in person just yet, don’t worry! There are many great films set in the country that can transport you there from the comfort of your own home. From romantic comedies to historical dramas, and whether you’re a fan of Philippine cinema or just looking for a new and exciting way to travel, these films offer a unique and immersive way to experience the beauty and culture of the Philippines.

These films often rely on the setting as much as the main characters, giving viewers an authentic and unique perspective of the location. This concept of cinematic travel can be applied to other destinations as well. For example, by watching movies that were shot in South Korea, the United Kingdom, Barcelona, Central America, or even the USA, you can gain insight into the culture, history, and landscapes of these places, and get ideas for your future travel plans.

Wondering where to watch? It depends on where you live in the world and which streaming services you have. We link to the streaming service we watch on in each case - be it Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, or elsewhere.

You can get one month free of Amazon Prime (or a 6-month trial for students) of Amazon Prime and also get immediate access to FREE Two Day shipping, Amazon Video, and Music. While you won't be charged for your free trial, you'll be upgraded to a paid membership plan automatically at the end of the trial period - though if you have already binged all these, you could just cancel before the trial ends.

Apple TV+ also has a one-week trial, and Hulu has a one-month trial (which can be bundled with Disney!). Another option might be using a VPN to access Netflix titles locked to other regions. Netflix is now available in more than 190 countries worldwide and each country has a different library and availability. US Netflix is (understandably) one of the best. 

While we wish everything could just be in one place - for now, it seems these are the best streaming platforms to watch on.

Gold, Silver, Death [Oro, Plata, Mata] (1982)

Gold, Silver, Death is a classic Filipino film directed by Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes. Set on the island of Negros, the film showcases the stunning landscapes and rich cultural traditions of the region. The use of local music and dance adds to the authenticity of the film and immerses the viewer in the unique Philippine experience.

The film follows the lives of three sisters – Ana, Isabel, and Fe – as they navigate the challenges of life in the Philippines during World War II. Ana, the eldest sister, is a strong-willed and independent woman who is torn between her duty to her family and her own desires. Isabel, the middle sister, is a talented musician who is struggling to find her place in the world. Fe, the youngest sister, is a naive and sheltered young woman who is forced to confront the harsh realities of war.

One of the standout performances in the film is by actress Hilda Koronel, who plays the role of the eldest sister, Ana. Koronel brings depth and complexity to her character as she grapples with the challenges of love, loss, and legacy.

In addition to its captivating plot and talented cast, Gold, Silver, Death also boasts impressive production value. The film was shot on location at important Philippine landmarks, including the historic Balay Negrense Museum and the iconic Bacolod City Public Plaza.

Gold, Silver, Death is a must-see for fans of Philippine cinema and anyone interested in exploring the country’s history and culture. Its powerful themes and beautiful visuals make it a timeless masterpiece.

Miracle [Himala] (1982)

Miracle is a classic Filipino film directed by Ishmael Bernal. The film follows the story of Elsa, a young woman who claims to have seen an apparition of the Virgin Mary in a small, poverty-stricken village in the northern part of the Philippines. As news of Elsa’s miraculous sighting spreads, the once-dying village becomes a place of pilgrimage, bringing hope and prosperity to the people.

One of the standout performances in the film is by lead actress Nora Aunor, who delivers a powerful and emotional portrayal of Elsa. Aunor is a highly acclaimed and beloved actress in the Philippines, known for her versatility and range as an actress. She has appeared in a wide variety of film and television roles, showcasing her talent in both dramatic and comedic performances. She is widely considered a national treasure in the country.

Miracle is set in the province of Ilocos Norte, located in the northwest region of the Philippines. The film beautifully captures the rugged and picturesque landscape of the region, including the famous Bangui Wind Farm, a landmark in Ilocos Norte known for its rows of wind turbines that line the coast.

Miracle is a poignant and thought-provoking film that tackles themes of faith, hope, and the human capacity for belief. If you’re up to experiencing a powerful film that will surely make you emotional, you should definitely give it a chance.

From What is Before [Mula sa Kung Ano ang Noon] (2014)

From What is Before is a Filipino film directed by Lav Diaz. The film tells the story of a small village in the Philippines during the 1970s, as it becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid in the face of political turmoil and martial law. Diaz’s use of long takes and natural lighting gives the film a sense of realism and intimacy, immersing the viewer in the daily lives of the villagers.

The film begins with the arrival of a young man, Elias, who has returned to the village after spending some time in the city. As Elias tries to reintegrate into village life, strange events begin to occur, including the disappearance of several villagers and the appearance of a mysterious woman who seems to have supernatural powers. These events, combined with the growing tensions and fear caused by the political situation, create a sense of unease and uncertainty throughout the film. 

One of the stars of the film is Perry Dizon, who gives a powerful performance as the young man struggling to find his place in the world. The film also features several important Philippine landmarks, including the Banaue Rice Terraces, which are prominently featured in several scenes.

From What is Before is a thought-provoking and beautifully crafted film that offers a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the Philippines. If you’re a fan of foreign cinema or historical dramas, this is a film you won’t want to miss.

Metro Manila (2013)

Metro Manila, directed by Sean Ellis, is set in the bustling capital city of the Philippines, Manila. The film follows the story of Oscar Ramirez, a poor farmer from the countryside who moves to the city with his family in search of a better life.

Upon arriving in Manila, the Ramirez family finds themselves struggling to adjust to city life and find their footing in the crowded, chaotic metropolis. They eventually find work with a wealthy family, but soon become embroiled in a web of deceit and danger as they uncover a dark secret about their employers.

The film stars Jake Macapagal as Oscar and Althea Vega as his wife, Mai. Both actors give strong performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters as they navigate the challenges of life in the city. The film was praised for its authentic portrayal of life in the Philippines and its compelling plot, as well as for the strong performances of its cast.

Metro Manila offers a unique and immersive look at the vibrant and complex city of Manila, capturing both the excitement and the struggles of life in the capital. The film features some important Philippine landmarks, including the historic Intramuros district and the iconic Quiapo Church.

This film is a compelling and well-crafted film that offers a captivating look at life in the Philippines. If you’re a fan of crime dramas or foreign cinema, Metro Manila is definitely for you.

Graceland (2012)

Graceland is a Filipino crime thriller directed by Ron Morales and starring Arnold Reyes and Menggie Cobarrubias. The film follows the story of Marlon Villar, a chauffeur who is caught in a web of corruption and deception after his employer, a corrupt politician, is kidnapped.

As Marlon delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of lies and corruption that stretches from the highest levels of government to the city’s criminal underworld. Along the way, he must confront his own troubled past and navigate the treacherous world of Philippine politics.

Set in the bustling city of Manila, Graceland offers a raw and unflinching look at the underworld of Philippine politics. The film was shot on location in the Makati and Quezon City districts, showcasing the vibrant and diverse culture of the Philippines. One of the film’s standout scenes takes place at the iconic Quiapo Church, a historic Roman Catholic church located in the heart of Manila.

Graceland is a gripping and intense film that offers a unique perspective on the corruption of power in the Philippines. It features strong performances from its lead actors and is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers. If you’re looking for a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Graceland is definitely worth checking out.

Dukot (2016)

Dukot is a Filipino thriller film directed by Paul Soriano and starring Enrique Gil, Shaina Magdayao, and Bing Pimentel. The film tells the story of Carlo (Gil), a young man who is abducted and held for ransom by a group of armed men. As he struggles to survive in captivity, Carlo must also confront the difficult memories of his past and the secrets that have been kept from him.

One of the standout elements of Dukot is its talented cast, led by Gil and Magdayao, who deliver powerful and emotional performances. The film also showcases the stunning landscape of the Philippines, particularly the mountains of the Cordillera Administrative Region in the northern part of the country. The region is known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, which is prominently featured in the film.

In addition to its strong cast and beautiful setting, Dukot is also noteworthy for its exploration of timely and important themes such as family, identity, and forgiveness. These themes are woven seamlessly into the film’s plot, making for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant viewing experience.

Dukot is a powerful and poignant film that showcases the talent of its cast and the beauty of the Philippines. It is a must-see for fans of thrillers and anyone interested in Filipino cinema.

General Luna [Heneral Luna] (2015)

General Luna is a historical biopic film directed by Jerrold Tarog and starring John Arcilla in the titular role of General Antonio Luna, a key figure in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. The film tells the story of Luna’s tumultuous tenure as the head of the Philippine Revolutionary Army, as he navigates the challenges and politics of the time while fighting for independence.

Luna has an exceptional cast, led by Arcilla in a tour de force performance as the eponymous general. Arcilla brings a fierce intensity and passion to the role, capturing the complexity and vulnerability of the historical figure. The film also features an impressive supporting cast, including Mon Confiado, Arron Villaflor, and Joem Bascon, who all deliver strong performances.

In addition to its strong acting, General Luna also impresses with its stunning production design and cinematography, which capture the beauty and grandeur of the Philippines during the late 19th century. The film showcases various locations in the country, including the mountain province of Benguet, which serves as the backdrop for the battle scenes.

General Luna is a thrilling and emotionally resonant historical epic that brings the story of General Antonio Luna to life with powerful performances and stunning production values. It is a great film to see if you’re interested in Philippine history and anyone interested in a captivating and thought-provoking film experience.

Norte, the End of History [Norte, Hangganan ng Kasaysayan] (2013)

Norte, the End of History is a Filipino art film directed by Lav Diaz and starring Sid Lucero, Archie Alemania, and Angeli Bayani. The film tells the story of Fabian (Lucero), a law school dropout who is falsely accused of a crime and sentenced to life in prison, and Joaquin (Alemania), a man who becomes a vigilante after the murder of his family. As their paths intersect, the film explores themes of justice, morality, and the human condition.

Norte, the End of History has a particularly long runtime, which allows Diaz to delve deeply into the characters and themes of the film. The film’s slow and methodical pace gives it a contemplative feel, inviting the viewer to reflect on the complex issues it raises. The film also features strong performances from its cast, particularly Lucero and Alemania, who bring depth and nuance to their roles.

Beyond its strong acting and thoughtful themes, Norte, the End of History also impresses with its stunning cinematography, which captures the beauty of the northern Philippine region of Ilocos Norte. The film features various locations in the province, including the historic Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as a backdrop for some of the film’s key scenes.

Norte, the End of History is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that explores timely and important themes with depth and nuance. This film is perfect for those fans of art cinema and anyone interested in a unique and challenging viewing experience.

Heaven’s Waiting [Hintayan Ng Langit] (2018)

Heaven’s Waiting is a Filipino drama film directed by Dan Villegas and starring Eddie Garcia and Bela Padilla. The film tells the story of Lola Bonifacia (Garcia), an elderly woman who has recently passed away and finds herself in a waiting room in the afterlife. As she reflects on her life and the choices she made, Lola meets various people who have also recently passed away and must confront the consequences of their actions.

One of the standout elements of Heaven’s Waiting is the great job done by its cast. Led by the legendary Eddie Garcia in his final film role. Garcia brings depth and gravitas to the role of Lola Bonifacia, delivering a poignant and emotional performance. The film also features strong supporting performances from Padilla and the rest of the cast, who all bring depth and complexity to their characters.

Heaven’s Waiting has some beautiful production design and cinematography, which capture the ethereal and otherworldly setting of the afterlife. The film features various locations in the Philippines, including the historic city of Vigan in the province of Ilocos Sur, which serves as a backdrop for some of the film’s key scenes.

It is a poignant and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption with depth and nuance. Heaven’s Waiting is a must-see for fans of drama and anyone interested in a moving and thought-provoking film experience.

Four Sisters and A Wedding (2013)

Four Sisters and A Wedding is a Filipino comedy-drama film directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina and starring Toni Gonzaga, Bea Alonzo, Angel Locsin, and Shaina Magdayao as the four sisters of the film’s title. The film tells the story of the sisters as they reunite for the wedding of their youngest brother, CJ (Enchong Dee), and must confront the conflicts and secrets that have strained their relationships.

Four Sisters and A Wedding offers a relatable and heartwarming story, which explores themes of family, love, and forgiveness. The film is set in the Philippines, with various locations in the country serving as the backdrop for the sisters’ reunion, including the city of Tagaytay, which is known for its beautiful views of Taal Lake and Volcano.

This charming and heartwarming film explores the complexities of family relationships with wit and warmth. Four Sisters and A Wedding is perfect for any fan’s family comedies.

Never Not Love You (2018)

Never Not Love You is a Filipino romantic drama film directed by Antoinette Jadaone and starring James Reid and Nadine Lustre. The film tells the story of Gio (Reid) and Joanne (Lustre), a young couple who navigate the ups and downs of their relationship as they pursue their dreams and build a life together.

Never Not Love You has a very charming cast led by Reid and Lustre, who deliver strong and convincing performances. The film also features an impressive supporting cast, including Joseph Marco and Yayo Aguila, who bring depth and humor to their roles.

In addition to its strong acting, Never Not Love You also impresses with its beautiful cinematography, which captures the vibrant and bustling city of Manila. The film showcases various locations in the city, including the historic Intramuros district, which serves as a backdrop for some of the film’s key scenes.

Never Not Love You is a heartwarming and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of following one’s dreams with wit and warmth. It is a must-see for fans of romance and anyone looking for a feel-good and uplifting film experience.

A Love Story (2007)

A Love Story is a Filipino romantic drama film directed by Cathy Garcia-Molina and starring Aga Muhlach and Maricel Soriano. The film tells the story of Romeo (Muhlach), a successful businessman, and Julie (Soriano), a poor but talented seamstress, as they navigate the challenges and conflicts of their relationship.

In addition to its lovely story, A Love Story manages to capture the vibrant and bustling city of Manila. The film showcases various locations in the city, including the historic district of Quiapo, which is known for its colorful market and iconic church.

A Love Story is a heartwarming and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of forgiveness with wit and warmth. It is a perfect film to watch and relax with a loved one.

Crazy Beautiful You (2015)

Crazy Beautiful You is a Filipino romantic drama film directed by Mae Cruz-Alviar and starring Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla. The film tells the story of Jackie (Bernardo), a rebellious teenager who is sent to the Philippines to spend time with her estranged father, and Kiko (Padilla), a young man who helps her on her journey of self-discovery.

Crazy Beautiful You has captured the stunning natural beauty of the Philippines. The film showcases various locations in the country, including the province of Bataan, which is known for its breathtaking beaches and historic landmarks.

Crazy Beautiful You is a heartwarming and emotionally resonant film that explores themes of family, love, and self-discovery with wit and warmth. It is another great film to watch if you like romances.