'Forever grateful' stars shine bright as ABS-CBN Ball makes a comeback

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 1) — The ABS-CBN Ball made its comeback at the Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City on Saturday.

The benefit event gathered some of the biggest names in show business today — from love teams and veteran screen actors to the new generation of stars.

The theme for the ball was "Forever Grateful" which celebrities said was timely as it was the first time a ball was held since the COVID-19 pandemic and after the House of Representatives denied the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise.

CNN Philippines was among the media organizations invited by the Kapamilya network to cover the celebrities ahead of their much-anticipated red carpet look.

Here's a look at some of the stars who graced the ball and shared the things that they are most grateful for.

Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano thanked their fans for their overwhelming support in everything that they do.

"DonBelle” — who were named as Stars for the Night of the ball — will be starring in an upcoming series called "Can't Buy Me Love."

Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, meanwhile, shared their excitement to walk down the red carpet of the ABS-CBN Ball together.

Singer Darren Espanto said he is grateful that ABS-CBN managed to host the ball again and he is happy to attend, this time with a date.

Cassy Legaspi, for her part, said she felt like she's in a different universe seeing a lot of Kapamilya stars.

KD Estrada and Alexa Ilacad thanked their fans for their continuing support even in projects that they did not work on together.

Tony Labrusca said he is grateful to be part of the ball since he was given a lot of projects recently, including a leading man role.

Celebrity couples like Jane Oineza and RK Bagatsing, Julia Barretto and Gerald Anderson, Maris Racal and Rico Blanco also attended the event.

Joshua Garcia and Kathryn Bernardo were named as Best Dressed.