After 10 years of being part of Filipino entertainment culture, Netflix Philippines enters 2026 with a slate that marks a striking new chapter, bigger in ambition, deeper in creative partnerships, and unmistakably Filipino at its core.
What began as a home for global entertainment has evolved into a creative space where local storytellers find new possibilities and where Filipino audiences see themselves and their stories captured with scale, craft, and heart. The shift reflects clear viewing behavior. Last year alone, over 90% of Netflix members in the Philippines watched local content. This strong engagement reinforces the platform’s growing role in shaping and supporting Filipino storytelling.
How Netflix Became Part of the Local Story
Over the years, Netflix has evolved from introducing global stories to local audiences to actively supporting Filipino creators in sharing their stories with the world. As collaborations expanded and local creators pursued bolder visions, audience preferences became increasingly clear. Filipino viewers want stories that move them, surprise them, and reflect the Filipino experience with authenticity and ambition.
Hit titles such as Doll House, Lolo and the Kid, Outside, and Kontrabida Academy demonstrated how deeply local stories resonate with Filipino audiences. These titles also earned global attention. To date, 32 Filipino titles have charted on Netflix’s Global Top 10 lists, highlighting the international appeal of Filipino-made content.
Within the industry, Netflix’s role also evolved. The platform became a steadfast partner, investing in local talent and helping creators bring long-envisioned stories to life.
This local approach extends beyond production. Since 2022, Netflix has premiered episodes of long-running Filipino dramas before they air on free-to-air television. The collaboration began with ABS-CBN and later expanded to GMA. This strategy provides fans with more ways to watch the shows they love while reinforcing Netflix’s commitment to strengthening the Philippine entertainment ecosystem.
“We are excited to continue growing alongside the industry, strengthening partnerships, and supporting more ambitious ideas from script to screen. We continue to bring Filipino stories to the global stage, working with a wide range of creators to showcase the breadth, ambition, and diversity of Filipino storytelling. We are confident viewers will enjoy the varied stories coming to their screens this year, and the many more we look forward to bringing their way,” said Vitto Lazatin, Netflix’s Content Lead for the Philippines and Director of Content Licensing for Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
Bigger Worlds, Bolder Choices
Bigger and bolder defines the direction Filipino viewers are steering the industry toward, and this is precisely where Netflix Philippines’ 2026 slate is headed. For the first time, the lineup introduces five originals, including three series and two films. This expansion pushes genre, scale, and imagination while staying rooted in Filipino identity and emotional depth.
One of the most anticipated releases is BuyBust: The Undesirables, which reimagines the events following the 2018 film as a dystopian action series. Starring Anne Curtis and directed by Erik Matti, the production features massive sets, large ensemble casts, and the most ambitious scale to date. The series signals a new phase for Filipino action storytelling.
Exploring folklore and suspense, Balaraw is an atmospheric horror mystery series from director Rae Red. The ensemble-driven narrative delivers an expansive and unsettling viewing experience grounded in Filipino sensibilities. Its tone and execution mark a distinct direction for Philippine television.
In the romance genre, 18th Rose introduces a modern young adult love story at a time when such films have become rare in the local market despite audience demand. Featuring the pairing of Xyriel Manabat and Kyle Echarri, the film captures the magic of first love through a youthful and emotionally resonant lens.
Ganito, Ganyan, Ganoon presents a family drama with an offbeat twist. Anchored by Jodi Sta. Maria, the film centers on a wildly complicated mother in a story that blends humor, warmth, and honesty. It explores the realities of Filipino family life with both heart and edge.
Paskong Pinoy draws from the country’s long-standing Christmas tradition. The anthology film revives the warmth of classic Filipino holiday storytelling through themes of nostalgia, romance, second chances, and the sweetness of coming home.
In addition to its original titles, Netflix Philippines continues its partnerships with local broadcast networks. Two series will premiere three days before airing on free-to-air television. GMA’s The Master Cutter stars Dingdong Dantes in an action drama about a former scout ranger living a double life as a tailor by day and bounty hunter by night. ABS-CBN’s Someone, Someday follows a woman who creates a modern dating app to help women find meaningful love while confronting her own emotional journey. The series stars Kathryn Bernardo and James Reid in a new pairing, alongside Maja Salvador.
Together, these titles demonstrate the scale, range, and emotional depth of Filipino storytelling in 2026. Through bold new ideas, reimagined genres, and culturally grounded narratives, Netflix Philippines continues to strengthen its position as both a creative partner and a global platform for Filipino stories.
