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ABS-CBN Ball 2023: A shimmering, star-studded evening of fashion, gratitude and romance!

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Liezel dela Cruz

<p>The ABS-CBN Ball 2023 red carpet was nothing short of epic. </p><p>Last night, September 30, history was made as stars from different constellations converged in the same midnight setting – the ABS-CBN Ball 2023 – celebrating a new, beautiful era of solidarity. </p><p>And in the mood for defying the conventional, guests strutted the red carpet carrying their own versions of ‘pasabog’ whether that be in the form of breathtakingly gorgeous ‘black tie’ ensembles or unexpected couple ‘hard launches.’ Special guests including collaborators who have made a huge impact in ABS-CBN’s story of rising from the ashes also graced the star-studded affair. </p><p>Setting up the red carpet and the ballroom was the team of event stylist Dave Sandoval, who transformed the luxurious Makati Shangri-La (where the very first ABS-CBN Ball in 2018 was also held) into an even more fantastic, enchanting world by spreading out the most luscious floral arrangements all over the place. The abundance of flowers like roses and hydrangeas against a clean palette of green and white transported the guests to an ethereal garden, with fairy lights for an even dreamier effect. </p><div><strong>All hail the Queen!</strong></div><p>The ABS-CBN Ball has officially made its comeback, and who better to open the red carpet show than Kapamilya royalty Judy Ann Santos, who looked every inch a queen in a black asymmetrical dress. She was escorted by her husband, Ryan Agoncillo, who got red-carpet-ready in minutes by opting to wear his suit from daughter Yohan’s debut party on repeat.</p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mNQL2snM67s" title="Julia, Judy Ann and Ryan are true showstoppers on the red carpet! | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlights" width="853"></iframe></div><div><strong>Love was in the air! </strong></div><p>The power couple set the tone of opulence and romance on the red carpet as old and new tandems followed suit. Coco Martin and Julia Montes went red carpet official, walking side by side in their Old Hollywood glam-inspired ensembles. If action speaks louder than words, CocoJul holding hands, and giggling and gazing at each other throughout their walk would be enough of a statement. </p><p>Spreading a doze of sweetness, Zanjoe Marudo and Ria Atayde made their ABS-CBN Ball debut as a couple, as well as Carlo Aquino and Charlie Dizon, Maris Racal and Rico Blanco, Enzo Pineda and Michelle Vito, and RK Bagatsing and Jane Oineza, </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/diCC4w8SMCk" title="Jane, RK, and Kira serve jaw-dropping visuals on the red carpet | ABS-CBN Ball 2023" width="853"></iframe><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F3aoi-ZzQ38" title="Maris Racal and Rico Blanco steal the spotlight in opulent outfits | ABS-CBN Ball Highlights 2023" width="853"></iframe></div><p>Young fanatics received a pleasant surprise when Darren Espanto brought Cassy Legazpi as his date to The Ball. ViBrent hearts sure burst in ‘kilig’ too, as Vivoree Esclito and Brent Manalo joined forces on the red carpet. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tp_-Kp01B6g" title="Darren Espanto and Cassy Legaspi add sparkle to the red carpet | ABS-CBN Ball Highlights 2023" width="853"></iframe><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/r390ujypg1Q" title="Brent, Vivoree, Epi and Sunshine absolutely slay on the red carpet | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlights" width="853"></iframe></div><p>To some couples, the Ball was equal to date night. Walking the red carpet as a married woman for the first time, Maja Salvador arrived with husband Rambo Nunez. The Ball marked Luis Manzano and Jessy Mendiola’s first big showbiz event since becoming parents to the adorable Isabella Rose. The gorgeous Iza Calzado and husband Ben Wintle likewise took a break from their parental duties to join the banquet. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hgt20qixAeM" title="Ria, Zanjoe, Tony and Barbie’s sashay the red carpet in fashion-perfect looks | ABS-CBN Ball 2023" width="853"></iframe><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0yMiD-tdU6E" title="Kaye, Paul Jake, Diether and Jolina are total scene-stealers on the red carpet! | ABS-CBN Ball 2023" width="853"></iframe></div><p>Jericho Rosales and Kim Jones, Kaye Abad and Paul Jake Castillo, Gladys Reyes and Christopher Roxas, and Nikki Valdez and Luis Garcia made us witness their unmistakable affection for each other as they entered the venue. JC De Vera brought his stunning wife, Rikkah, to the event, which was a rare occurrence in their quiet relationship. OPM power couples Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid, and KZ Tandingan and TJ Monterde dabbled into fashion for a night. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e4cp6Zi6-ek" title="Jessy, Luis, Ogie and Regine own the night in their stunning ensembles | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlight" width="853"></iframe><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XPy9o2Iv-jQ" title="What Maxene, Elmo, KZ, TJ, Enzo and Michelle wore to the ABS-CBN Ball 2023" width="853"></iframe></div><p>We held our breath as engaged couple Sam Milby and Catriona Gray shared a beautiful and romantic moment on the red carpet. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-B42_Zd5r2o" title="The stellar looks of FranSeth, DonBelle and LoiNie on the red carpet | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlights" width="853"></iframe></div><p>Gerald Anderson and Julia Barretto looked so in love – and stylish. Chie Filomeno and Jake Cuenca, who maintain that they’re only getting to know each other, might have walked as solo acts but red-carpet host Bianca Gonzalez spilled that Chie was one of Jake’s motivations to show up at the event.  </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OQ8CTtcoAOk" title="Jericho, Kim, Maymay, and Chie look fun and fabulous on the red carpet | ABS-CBN Ball 2023" width="853"></iframe></div><p>Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano looked prom-perfect in their youthful attire, while Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin supported each other on the red carpet. Bringing ‘kilig’ wherever they go, KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad stole our hearts that night. </p><p>Of course, Kathryn Bernardo and Daniel Padilla have had this tradition of going to the Ball together. These two are unbreakable! Loisa Andalio and Ronnie Alonte, as well as McCoy de Leon and Elisse Joson offered ‘kilig’ on the red carpet as well. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mdk7yHex98Q" title="Elisse Joson, McCoy de Leon and Toni Fowler parade with striking flair | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlight" width="853"></iframe></div><div><strong>Star Power and Unexpected Guests</strong></div><p>John Arcilla, the first Filipino to win the Volpi Cup for Best Actor; Jodi Sta Maria, the first Filipina to win Best Actress at the Asian Academy Creative Awards; and Dolly de Leon, the first Filipina to get a Golden Globes nomination added prestige to the event. </p><p>We were all excited to see screen veterans like Maricel Soriano, Lorna Tolentino, Susan Africa, Tessie Tomas, and Lito Lapid all glammed up for the occasion. Seasoned thespians Epy Quizon, Angel Aquino, Sunshine Cruz, Agot Isidro, John Estrada, and Mylene Dizon likewise blessed the red carpet with their dazzling presence.</p><p>One of the most anticipated moments at the Ball was the arrival of Ivana Alawi, who set the red carpet on fire in a skin-baring outfit. Her “<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/batangquiapo"><u><em><strong>FPJ’s Batang Quiapo</strong></em></u></a>” co-star Lovi Poe was a supreme, breathtaking sight, walking down the red carpet as a married woman, in an ab-baring Indian-inspired garb. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/duE8MvhIcQQ" title="Ivana, Jane, Janella, and Lovi ooze glamour and star power on the red carpet | ABS-CBN Ball" width="853"></iframe></div><p>“<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/theironheart"><u><em><strong>The Iron Heart</strong></em></u></a>” lead actor Richard Gutierrez was alone on the red carpet, but that didn’t diminish his star power. Diether Ocampo looked polished and cool, holding a motorbike helmet to the ballroom. The beloved gentleman Joshua Garcia carried his signature modest charm in a double-breasted suit, turning his own style into a fashion memory on the red carpet. </p><p>Those who signed with ABS-CBN during the pandemic like Jennica Garcia, Sunshine Dizon, and Jake Ejercito made their maiden appearance at the ABS-CBN Ball last night.</p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3r9Q7apm0YA" title="Sue, Javi, Jennica and Christian make us fall in love with their red-carpet looks | ABS-CBN Ball" width="853"></iframe></div><p>With bated breath, we watched the historic entrance of GMA Executives Felipe Gozon and Annette Gozon-Valdes to a Kapamilya ball, which was a toast to harmony and many more collaborations to come between ABS-CBN and GMA Network. </p><div><strong>Gen Zs redefining evening fashion: Mermaidcore and Asian idol vibe</strong></div><p>‘Black tie’ was the dress code of the night. In fashion lexicon, it is synonymous with classic and formal. For the ladies, it’s all about floor-length hemlines while the gentlemen are expected to don tuxedos, black trousers, and bowties. </p><p>While the dress code dictated the length, fabric, and level of formality, it didn’t limit the attendees&#x27; wish to experiment with the design and styling. After all, the ABS-CBN Ball is that one occasion where stars exhibit their creativity and sartorial taste.</p><p>As the stars descended one by one, several trends shone on the red carpet. Fashion mavens’ fearless forecast revolved around high slits and simple silhouettes, hinged on mature, sophisticated looks. True enough, there were fewer ball gowns, but plenty of sultry numbers making a case for “mermaidcore fashion.”</p><p>One of those who made a splash in a mystical ‘fit was former “<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/goinbulilit"><u><em><strong>Goin’ Bulilit</strong></em></u></a>” baby Sharlene San Pedro, who went for a wet look to complement her sparkly purple number. Jane Oineza looked like a sea goddess in her wet, wavy hair, which perfectly matched her mermaid-esque dress with details reminiscent of the ocean’s allure. Vivoree Esclito dared to go sexy this year, channelling a beautiful siren in black. </p><p>To rock the mermaidcore trend, one needs to sport sensational hair, like that of Kim Chiu, who stole the spotlight in a nude body-hugging dress. Toni Fowler&#x27;s red hair was perfect for the mermaid theme too.</p><p>The life of the party, the Unkabogable Star Vice Ganda stole the show ‘en vogue’ in an imposing blue couture by Indian designer Gaurav Gupta, representing a new elevated sense of style. The electric blue ensemble showcased dramatic details mimicking the fluidity of water. In this mermaidcore world, Vice is truly the Queen, and her King is Ion Perez, who looked dashing in his black suit. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N0cqEikAWjI" title="The iconic looks of Vice Ganda and Ion Perez on the red carpet | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlights" width="853"></iframe></div><p>The female attendees dared to show some skin that evening, shining the spotlight on their amazing legs in flirty high slits like Arci Munoz, Sofia Andres, Ina Raymundo, and Anji Salvacion.  Some flaunted their beautiful décolletage in low-cut necklines like Aya Fernandez, Gillian Vicencio, and Shanaia Gomez. Others showcased their awe-inspiring abs in gowns with daring cut-outs like the fierce Maymay Entrata. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_4RGrBpXDUY" title="Sofia Andres and Ina Raymundo make heads turn with their fab outfits | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlights" width="853"></iframe></div><p>The blunt bob cut trend also stood out, and we’re glad that the likes of “Darna” Jane de Leon, AC Bonifacio, and Kaori Oinuma took on this fearless hair makeover. </p><p>Some ladies exuded ‘empowerment’ like Andrea Brillantes, who was a vision in red; as well as Janella Salvador, whose overall look was reminiscent of her Valentina/Regina character in “<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/darna"><u><em><strong>Mars Ravelo’s Darna</strong></em></u></a>.” </p><p>In every red carpet occasion, there’s something about guys in suits that makes them ooze with manly gorgeousness. But when they level up their looks by playing with the suit’s structure, boy, do they look extra dapper. </p><p>Fashion insiders were looking forward to how Gen Zs would modernize the classic ‘black tie’ theme. Indeed, nobody came to disappoint. The Gen Z guys chose to play with their outfits and the results were a lot of fun, calling to mind K-pop fashion.</p><p>One distinct feature for men that evening was the shirtless suit, sported by the likes of Gello Marquez, Jeremy G, and JC Alcantara, with the latter completing the Asian idol vibe with a long cape and chic hairstyle. Guy accessories, like Joao Constancia’s piercings, were a nod to the Korean-Pop look. </p><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zqsBN84J51s" title="&quot;Senior High” stars serve killer fashion moments on the red carpet  | ABS-CBN Ball 2023 Highlights" width="853"></iframe></div><p>Most of the guys came in groups, like the “<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/seniorhigh2023"><u><strong><em>Senior High</em></strong></u></a>” squad Kyle Echarri, Zaijian Jaranilla, Elijah Canlas, and JK Labajo who all served killer fashion moments on the red carpet. P-Pop group BGYO also went for suited-up attire that’s timeless yet modish at the same time. </p><p>More than a fashion extravaganza, the night was an opportunity for Kapamilya stars to celebrate with gratitude and pay it forward as part of the proceeds of the event will support the advocacies of the ABS-CBN Foundation.</p>

The universe conspired to make the ABS-CBN Ball 2023 a historic night of gratitude and solidarity. Relive the breathtakingly plush and ‘kilig’ red carpet moments!