Czech Embassy Manila

🇨🇿 CZECH this out! 🎬

The 29th edition of Cine Europa, the Philippines’ longest-running European film festival, opened with the acclaimed Czech film The Waves at Shangri-La Plaza on May 28.

We invite everyone to experience the best of European cinema and discover the stories that connect us across cultures

NewsWatch Plus Philippines

Cine Europa 2026 opens with Czech film ‘The Waves’ Metro Manila, Philippines – The 29th edition of Cine Europa, the country’s longest-running European film festival, opened on May 28 with the screening of the Czech film The Waves at Shangri-La Plaza. Organizers said the opening night drew audiences to celebrate European cinema, with the film hig...

What an opening night for CINE EUROPA 2026! 🇨🇿🇪🇺🎬

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the opening screening of The Waves.

We also extend our gratitude to the EU Delegation for organizing this wonderful event together with its partners - the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) and Shangri-La Plaza.

Photo courtesy: Delegation of the EU to the Philippines

🇨🇿🇪🇺

🎬 FREE CINEMA FOR A WORLD-CLASS FILM?! 😱

Yes, you read that right! 🇨🇿🇪🇺

The Embassy of the Czech Republic opens CINE EUROPA 2026 with the award-winning film "The Waves"

📍 Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong
🕕 Tomorrow, 28 May 2026 | 6:00 PM

See EU there! 👀🍿

In a major milestone for wildlife conservation, international experts and local scientists successfully assisted in breeding a critically endangered Philippine Eagle chick, marking the first successful hatching of its kind in 13 years. Czech conservation specialists collaborated with Philippine researchers using advanced reproductive methods, including artificial insemination, to improve breeding success for one of the world’s rarest raptors. Earlier attempts had produced fertilized eggs, but previous chicks failed to survive, making this successful hatching a significant breakthrough in conservation science.

The Philippine eagle, recognized as the national bird of the Philippines, is among the largest and most powerful eagles on Earth. However, the species remains critically endangered due to deforestation, habitat fragmentation, hunting, and environmental pressures. Conservation groups estimate that fewer than 300 mature individuals remain in the wild, meaning every successful hatch is considered extremely important for the species’ long-term survival.

Scientists emphasize that the achievement demonstrates the growing importance of international cooperation, reproductive technology, and long-term research in protecting endangered species. In Conservation Biology, captive breeding and assisted reproduction are increasingly used to support populations facing severe decline. Researchers hope the breakthrough will strengthen future breeding programs and contribute to restoring wild Philippine eagle populations over time.

Science Department |

The Embassy of the Czech Republic in Manila proudly presents “The Waves” as its official entry to the opening of Cine Europa 2026.

Join us on 28 May 2026, 6:00 PM at Cinema 3, Shangri-La Plaza, for a powerful start to this year’s festival.

Directed by Jiří Mádl, “The Waves” is a gripping historical drama set in Central Europe during a time of political upheaval. It follows radio journalists determined to uphold truth and integrity as state pressure intensifies—forcing them to choose between silence and resistance.

More than a story of the past, the film offers a timely reflection on the value of free expression and the courage it demands. In a country like the Philippines, where journalism and storytelling continue to shape public discourse, this story resonates deeply - reminding us why the freedom to speak, question, and tell the truth matters.

Additional screenings:
Tacloban – 11 June, 9:00 PM
Liceo de Cagayan de Oro – 2 July, 4:00 PM

Join us for a cinematic experience that resonates far beyond the screen.

Save the date and be part of the conversation.

Did you know? Disaster Risk Reduction and Management is one of Czechia’s key priorities, especially in helping vulnerable communities strengthen their resilience to natural hazards.

In line with this commitment, the Embassy is pleased to share the signing of the 2026 Small-Scale Project with Culion Foundation, Inc., represented by Ambassador Karel Hejč and Executive Director Mr. Eugenio M. Caccam, Jr.

This project will support the municipality of Culion, Palawan - an area highly vulnerable to typhoons, storm surges, flooding, and public health emergencies. By establishing integrated early warning and communication systems across high-risk barangays, the initiative aims to address critical information gaps and improve disaster preparedness and emergency response.

Together, we work towards safer and more resilient communities.

𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙁𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙤 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙫𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙢𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝘾𝙯𝙚𝙘𝙝 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙮? A week of collaboration, learning, and world-class beer culture 🇨🇿🍺🇵🇭

Home to centuries-old brewing traditions and world-renowned craftsmanship, the Czech Republic continues to shape the global beer industry and from May 10–15, a Philippine brewing delegation had the opportunity to experience this legacy firsthand.

The Philippine brewing delegation proudly concluded an insightful and productive mission to the Czech Republic, strengthening ties between the Czech and Philippine beer industries.

Representing the Philippines were Boondocks Brewing, Third Beer Company (District Brewing Company), Boracay Brewing Company, Pinatubo Brewery, and Don Revy, accompanied by Ms. Markéta Pecková of the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Manila and Mr. Jan Holub from the Ministry of Agriculture of the Czech Republic.

The delegation had the opportunity to visit and engage with leading Czech brewing and technology institutions including LINDR. CZ s.r.o., Sladovna Mšeno, Top Hop, Arix, Bohemia Hop, Charvát Pacovské Strojírny, Budějovický Budvar, Cheops, Bucher Denwel, and Czech Brewmaster.

The mission culminated with meaningful exchanges alongside the UCT Prague – University of Chemistry and Technology, fostering collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for brewing excellence.

This journey marks the beginning of even brighter partnerships between the Czech Republic and the Philippines in advancing the beer industry through knowledge-sharing, technology, craftsmanship, and collaboration.

Here’s to stronger partnerships and many great brews ahead.

𝙉𝙖 𝙯𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙫í! 🍻