A behind-the-scenes look at how ‘GMA Gala Night’ came to life
Last Aug. 2, GMA Network marked its 75th anniversary with a dazzling “Gala Night” held at the Marriott Hotel.
The event was a grand celebration attended by the network’s biggest and brightest stars, as well as esteemed guests and industry friends who have played a part in its continued success. It was an unforgettable evening filled with camaraderie, nostalgia, and the forging of new connections, one that welcomed over a thousand attendees! To make the night even more memorable, the Marriott Hotel prepared a special menu befitting the occasion. The evening began with an exquisite starter of Sustainable Tiger Prawn served with saffron and prawn jelly, a lemon tomato veil, Blue Pea Flower Tea and Porcini Mushroom consommé.
For the main course, guests enjoyed chargrilled Cargill Beef Tenderloin, paired with herb butter carrots, corn purée and scalloped potatoes. The celebration concluded on a sweet note with a dessert dubbed the Rose Garden, a delightful array of assorted sweet treats.
Adding to the night’s enchantment were stellar performances from the Philippine Madrigal Singers and Sparkle artists Anthony Rosaldo, Garrett Bolden, Jessica Villarubin and Naya Ambi, who performed GMA’s official theme song.
Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose and Asia’s Pop Heartthrob Darren Espanto wowed the audience with their rendition of the theme song from “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.”
Impressed by the scale and execution of the event, this writer reached out to GMA’s Corporate Communications department to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the unforgettable evening came to life — and to offer a glimpse of what lies ahead for the beloved Kapuso network.
Who were the biggest stars in attendance, and who designed their outfits?
GMA: “This year’s ‘GMA Gala’ welcomed some of our most celebrated talents, including Heart Evangelista (in Schiaparelli), Alden Richards (Brunello Cucinelli), Marian Rivera (Zuhair Murad), Dingdong Dantes (Stefano Ricci), Jennylyn Mercado and Dennis Trillo (both in Dior), Bea Alonzo (Elie Saab), Carla Abellana (Mak Tumang), Gabbi Garcia (Cheetah Rivera), Barbie Forteza (Ehrran Montoya), David Licauco (Anthony Ramirez), Kyline Alcantara (Annie’s Ibiza), Ruru Madrid (Neric Beltran), Bianca Umali (Jerome Lorico), Ysabel Ortega (Monique Lhuillier), Miguel Tanfelix (Yves Saint Laurent), and Sanya Lopez (Vincent Van Bantiling), among many others.”
How did GMA prepare for this milestone event?
GMA: “It took months to prepare the concept, from the blue carpet to the ballroom look. We wanted to try something new, something we haven’t done before. We collaborated with the one and only Gideon Hermosa to achieve the vision for the ‘GMA Gala’ given that it is the 75th diamond anniversary of the network.
“In terms of the program at the red carpet and inside the ballroom, we wanted it to be simple and seamless, and that’s why we tapped prominent and talented directors to achieve this. For the blue carpet, director Rico Gutierrez set the mood for a night of pure glamour. Inside the ballroom, director Paolo Valenciano brought his signature touch to a harmonious program.
“GMA Network, Inc. and Sparkle GMA Artist Center also worked together with Manila Marriott Hotel and Newport World Resorts to make a grand and superior experience for this year’s ‘GMA Gala.’”
What was the highlight of the night for the network?
GMA: “This year’s ‘GMA Gala’ shone the spotlight on the elegance of its diamond anniversary, starting with the unveiling of a blue carpet, veering away from the traditional red carpet we have done through the years. Inside the ballroom, we also unveiled, for the first time ever, the newest GMA Station ID highlighting the artists of the network and the legacy we have built through the years.
“During the program, we also gave recognition to the Gozon, Duavit and Jimenez families, who are the very reasons why the network continues to stand tall and make a difference in the lives of the Filipinos. Under their guidance, the network persists to be a dominant force in the entertainment industry and is consistently the most trusted news source in the Philippines.
“In addition, we honored several standout personalities with special awards: Best Dressed: David Licauco (male) and Kyline Alcantara (female); Couple of the Night: Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca; Young Stars of the Night: Will Ashley (male) and Waynona Collings (female); Red Carpet Scene Stealers: Carla Abellana and Esnyr; Hall of Famers: Marian Rivera, Dingdong Dantes, Alden Richards and Heart Evangelista.”
And what about the next 75 years and beyond?
“The ‘GMA Gala’ has been a celebration of life, solidarity and service to the Filipino people. Moreover, it is also a form of gratitude to all the people who continue to support the network. In celebration of its 75th diamond anniversary, GMA Network wanted to give appreciation to all its supporters as well as cement its trademark for the past seven decades. As the network reflects on 75 years of delivering balanced news, heartfelt entertainment and positive change, it also sets its sights on the future — embracing digital innovation, social media engagement and evolving content that resonates with new generations.”
- Latest
- Trending
