The ABS-CBN Ball is back and it definitely did not disappoint. This year, not only the brightest and hottest stars of ABS-CBN graced the event, but also some personalities from other networks like GMA and TV5.
Let's take a look at the celebrities who attended the ABS-CBN Ball for the first time:
1. GMA Executives Felipe Gozon and Annette Gozon Valdes
Topping the list are the GMA executives Felipe Gozon and Annette Gozon Valdes. Their first-ever attendance at the ABS-CBN Ball 2023 is a historic moment since the two networks have always been neck and neck when it came to ratings.
But now, channel wars are over. GMA and ABS-CBN have released their groundbreaking collaboration together with Viu Philippines, Unbreak My Heart.
We can't forget to mention how ABS-CBN's noontime show, It's Showtime is currently airing on GMA's subsidiary channel GTV. Indeed, Kapamilya and Kapuso unite!
2. Jennica Garcia
It was an emotional night for Jennica Garcia. She has been in the showbiz industry as early as 2006, but this year she is regarded as one of the breakthrough actresses for her role in Dirty Linen.
Coming from a breakup with her former husband Alwyn Uytingco, Jennica endured the rough path leading to her stardom this year for her family.
Ever since she signed with ABS-CBN, she has been nothing but grateful to the network for giving her a chance to once again showcase her love and dedication to acting.
3. Cassy Legaspi
Darren Espanto got a date for this year's ABS-CBN Ball and it's none other than Kapuso star Cassy Legaspi! With their attendance to the ball, we can say it looks like the two have gone official.
During a media interview at the ball, the young stars were urged to reveal their official relationship status. However, Cassy and Darren admitted to being happy with each other's company, even without labels.
"We're just enjoying each other's company... We don't want to add any pressure... Happy kami so okay na 'yun, no need to explain," Cassy stated.
Cassy wore a Francis Libiran gown that highlighted her awesome body figure. And she even took a photo with Kathryn Bernardo!
4. Dolly De Leon
Here's another breakthrough star this 2023. Dolly De Leon gained so much popularity for her role in the Hollywood film Triangle of Sadness. ICYDK, she was nominated for the Best Supporting Actress category at the Golden Globe Award and also at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).
And although it has been a long time coming for Dolly, she is proud and truly enjoying all of her career milestones this year. In fact, her first Star Cinema movie, A Very Good Girl, alongside Kathryn Bernardo opened at P10 million gross sales on its first showing day.
Dolly's animated film, Iti Mapukpukaw, was also confirmed to be the official Philippine entry to the Academy Awards in 2024. It is certainly a year of many firsts for Dolly and we're here celebrating with her!
5. Susan Africa
"Excited na kinakabahan," that's how Susan Africa described her emotions during her first ABS-CBN Ball.
She humbly told the media how delighted she was after finally getting an invite to the prestigious event. "Happy na invited na ako sa wakas," Susan said in a quick interview.
Susan has been a staple in Philippine television after leaving a lasting impact with her role in the 1992 Mara Clara. The character she portrayed was Clara's mother, whose husband was abusive towards her daughter.
This year, she is currently starring in FPJ's Batang Quiapo as Lovi Poe's mother, who became a rich madam after enduring a hard life in the slums of Manila.
6. Aya Fernandez
The Rookie star, Aya Fernandez, made her first attendance at the ABS-CBN Ball an exciting one with her elegant, white ball gown.
ICYDK, Aya already had her primetime teleserye debut with Ivana Alawi in 2022 for their TV series, A Family Affair. This year, she is starring in another fiery drama Nag-aapoy na Damdamin together with Ria Atayde and Jane De Leon.
7. Ivana Alawi
Ivana Alawi is absolutely one of the sultriest ladies at the ABS-CBN Ball this year. Her ABS-CBN Ball debut showcased her captivating beauty which makes her one of the most sought-after celebrities in the country.
In 2022, she top-billed her first teleserye, A Family Affair, alongside Gerald Anderson. The internet personality turned actress recently signed another exclusive contract with ABS-CBN—and fans are excited about what's next for the actress.
Ivana totally caught everyone's attention with her bejeweled gown made by Michael Leyva.
