MMFF’s Parade of Stars goes fluvial

MANILA, Philippines — The Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) will hold its first fluvial Parade of Stars on Dec. 19, showcasing the Pasig River ferry service.

Instead of the traditional motorcade going around major roads in the metropolis, celebrities participating in this year’s film festival will ride ferry boats, according to Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benhur Abalos.

Abalos, who also heads the MMFF, said the fluvial parade is one of the highlights of the 2021 film festival during the holidays.

“Through this fluvial parade, we hope to encourage the public to ride the ferry service, which sails from Pinagbuhatan in Pasig to Escolta in Manila,” he said.

“This alternative transportation is traffic-free and you will get to appreciate the beauty of the Pasig River and the arts along the riverbanks,” Abalos added.

The parade will start from Guadalupe ferry station in Makati.

One lane along J.P. Rizal from the Guadalupe ferry station up to the University of Makati will be utilized as drop-off point for MMFF guests and participants.

Last year, the MMFF Parade of Stars was held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The MMFF 2021 will showcase eight movies ranging from social drama, horror, action, suspense, romance, to comedy horror starting Christmas Day until Jan. 8, 2022.

Abalos said the MMFF is an annual event, which aims to help promote and enhance the preservation, growth and development of local films.