Hankering for Makati’s free movie admission

MANILA, Philippines - Want Makati’s generous free movie admission benefit for senior citizens (SCs) and Persons With Disability (PWDs)?

Sixty-something Myrna Malana, whose recent watchlist on her day-off includes Train to Busan and Barcelona, shares, “We can watch movie anytime from Monday to Sunday even during MMFF on its first day without paying a single cent.”

Without political will, this is impossible as the rest of the cities observes the standard two days weekly free admission, except holidays and opening days.

SCs and PWDs deserve the perk. But do you know that there is no enabling law that provides for such benefit the reason implementation varies? They were set into motion by marketing programs of major malls or initiatives of local government units.

This explains it is stringent like only two features can be viewed on free days on non-prime schedules. It is also invalid on weekends and non-working public holidays. Blockbusters maybe availed a week after initial screening. Also exempt are IMAX theaters and 3D screenings.

These exclusions recognize the 20-percent discount entitlement upon presentation of a valid ID and the alternative of accessible small screens.

But there are other sides of the issue. Film critic Mario Hernando points out the variance that causes confusion between the free admission and as SC Card benefit.

Educator Dr. Rebecca Nueva Espana distinguishes, “Interest sectors in rural areas somehow cannot enjoy this.”

Artist Tani Sioson had to bring his father from Orani, Bataan to Olongapo, Zambales for his weekly movie routine.

Fashion and fitness guru Joyce Pilarsky identifies the use the cinemas as “resting place” and the unavoidable mixture of oldies and newbies turns jarring to both age groups.

Indie producer Ferdy Lapuz comments: “Baka puwede discount rate instead na 100-percent free.”

Producer/lawyer Joji Alonso concurs, “I think the present system is a fair arrangement which benefits interest groups and at the same time not disrupt the business of cinemas.”

Admit it. Makati City is an exclusion and cloning its free admission benefit is pie in the sky. Other cities don’t even deliver birthday cakes, right?