Ayala Malls Cinemas and British Embassy Mark 80 Years of Uk-Philippines Ties with “Sense and Sensibility”

What Readers Should Know
Ayala Malls Cinemas and the British Embassy in Manila hosted a special screening of Sense and Sensibility at Greenbelt on October 20 to celebrate UK-Philippines Friendship Day and 80 years of diplomatic relations. The gathering featured afternoon tea by Lusso and remarks highlighting storytelling, cultural exchange, and friendship. The film follows Jane Austen’s Elinor and Marianne Dashwood as they navigate love,…
Key Takeaways
- The special screening celebrated 80 years of UK-Philippines diplomatic relations.
- Ayala Malls Cinemas and the British Embassy hosted the event at Greenbelt on October 20.
- Guests enjoyed afternoon tea catered by Lusso before the screening.
- Mike Welch and Paul Birkett highlighted cultural exchange and the countries’ enduring friendship.
- Sense and Sensibility begins its exclusive Ayala Malls Cinemas run on October 28.
Ayala Malls Cinemas and the British Embassy in Manila celebrated 80 years of UK-Philippines diplomatic relations with a special screening of Sense and Sensibility at Greenbelt on October 20.
Held in celebration of UK-Philippines Friendship Day, the event brought together media representatives, guests, and film enthusiasts for an afternoon highlighting British literature, cinema, and cultural exchange.
Guests enjoyed afternoon tea catered by Lusso before the screening, setting the tone for a gathering centered on storytelling and the connections it creates across countries and generations.
British Embassy Manila Chargé d’Affaires Mike Welch spoke about the continuing relevance of Jane Austen’s work and the ability of literature and film to connect audiences.
“More than 200 years after it was written, the story continues to connect with audiences across generations,” Welch said.
His remarks highlighted how cultural exchange can strengthen the relationship between the United Kingdom and the Philippines, giving audiences opportunities to engage with stories beyond their own experiences.
Ayala Malls Chief Operating Officer Paul Birkett also reflected on the significance of the diplomatic milestone and the possibilities for continued collaboration.
“A friendship that has lasted 80 years is not only something to celebrate, but something to build upon,” Birkett said.
He emphasized openness, mutual respect, and shared ambition as important foundations for strengthening ties between the two countries.
Based on Austen’s novel, Sense and Sensibility follows sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood as they navigate love, loss, and social expectations. Their story formed the centerpiece of an event celebrating the enduring appeal of British storytelling.
The Greenbelt screening also precedes the film’s exclusive theatrical run at Ayala Malls Cinemas beginning October 28. The release gives longtime admirers and first-time viewers an opportunity to experience the adaptation on the big screen.
For Ayala Malls Cinemas, the event reflects its approach to presenting film experiences that encourage cultural engagement and bring audiences together. It also supports Ayala Land’s efforts to create opportunities for community connection through the arts.
Sense and Sensibility screens exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas starting October 28. Tickets are available through Ayala All Access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Ayala Malls Cinemas and the British Embassy host the screening?
The event celebrated UK-Philippines Friendship Day and 80 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
When and where was the special screening held?
It took place at Greenbelt on October 20, 2026.
What is “Sense and Sensibility” about?
Based on Jane Austen’s novel, it follows sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood as they navigate love, loss, and social expectations.
When does the theatrical run begin?
The film screens exclusively at Ayala Malls Cinemas beginning October 28, 2026.
Where can audiences buy tickets?
Tickets are available through https://www.ayalaallaccess.com.