18TH ISRAELI FILM FESTIVAL SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON WOMEN’S STORIES

The 18th Israeli Film Festival officially opened in the Philippines with a powerful celebration of stories that center women — their struggles, strength, and significant impact on society.

With this year’s theme, “Women at the Center,” the four-day festival showcases award-winning films that delve into identity, motherhood, autonomy, and the powerful, often unspoken, experiences of women. The featured stories explore what it means to love, lead, wait, rebel, and care — inviting audiences to see the world through a deeply human lens.

The festival kicked off with a gala screening of “Golda” at BHS Cinemas, Central Square, Bonifacio Global City. The biopic chronicles the life of Golda Meir, Israel’s first and only female Prime Minister and founder of MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation. The film follows Meir’s decisive leadership during the 1973 Yom Kippur War, portraying a woman who stood at the helm of a nation during one of its most trying times.

Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss opened the evening by underscoring the theme’s significance. “This festival is a tribute to women and their role in shaping history, culture, and society,” he said. “It reflects our commitment to cultural exchange and storytelling that fosters meaningful connections between Israel and the Philippines.”

The festival forms part of the Embassy of Israel’s broader mission to share Israel’s vibrant and diverse culture with Filipino audiences—through cinema that transcends borders and headlines.

All films are in Hebrew with English subtitles, except Golda, which is entirely in English. Admission is free, with seats on a first-come, first-served basis. As a special treat, the first 12 guests** to arrive at each screening receive free popcorn.

FESTIVAL SCREENING SCHEDULE
Location: BHS Cinemas, Central Square, Bonifacio Global City
Dates: July 24–27, 2025
Lineup: 5 Films | 7 Screenings

🔹 Thursday, July 24
🎥7:00 PM — The Art of Waiting
🎥9:00 PM — Milky Way

🔹 Friday, July 25
🎥7:00 PM — Zero Motivation
🔹 Saturday, July 26
🎥7:30 PM — Golda

🔹 Sunday, July 27
🎥2:00 PM — Zero Motivation
🎥5:00 PM — The Art of Waiting
🎥7:30 PM — Marrying Myself

Celebrate stories that empower, inspire, and resonate.
🎬 Experience cinema that puts women at the center.