- ABS-CBN Ball is the network’s most star-studded affair
- The annual event is one of showbiz’s most glamorous nights
The ABS-CBN Ball is one of the biggest and most awaited show business events in the Philippines. It is the designers and celebrities’ chance to showcase their sartorial best.
This year, our favorite cebrities were in their Modern Filipiniana looks.
ABS-CBN Ball is not just about fashion and fame. The proceeds of the event goes to a chosen charity. This year in memory of Gina Lopez, the environmentalist and philanthropist who sadly passed away in August, the organizers have chosen Bantay Bata’s education initiative as the benefactor.
Last Saturday’s (September 14) gathering started off with the red carpet. But as much as we loved the parade of celebrities, there were stars that we wished had graced the spectacular event.
Some of last year’s attendees already transferred networks, changed management, or had prior engagements. Whatever the reason, here are some celebrities whose absence was felt in this year’s ABS-CBN Ball.
1. Sharon Cuneta
For two consecutive years now, Megastar Sharon Cuneta couldn’t make it to the Ball. Last year, despite having a gown ready, her whole body was aching so much that she couldn’t walk straight so she had to skip the grand event.
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This year, her daughter Frankie Pangilinan flew to New York to pursue her college degree and mom Sharon was experiencing major separation anxiety. Also in her recent Instagram post, the actress-singer said she was considering semi-retirement after 40 years in the entertainment industry. These could be the reasons for her absence.
Meanwhile, the Megastar posted on her instagram on the day of the ABS-CBN Ball 2019, soliciting a prayer for the recent Philippine Earthquake felt in Manila.
2. Lea Salonga
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The World Class Performer Superstar and The Voice Kids Coach opted to spend her day off with family first as she had a magical night with them and brother Gerald Salonga at the Solaire Manila for The Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone Concert.
3. Kiray Celis
After many years as a Kapamilya, Kiray switched to GMA Network on December 20 last year.
4. Toni Gonzaga
Ultimate Multimedia Star and Home Sweetie Home: Extra Sweet lead Star Toni spent her days in US together with her family husband Paul Soriano and son Seve.
Days before the event, Toni had been vocal that she could not join the ABS-CBN Ball since she will be in New York to work on her requirements for her Harvard University course.
5. Erich Gonzales
The Blood Sisters star explained that she decided to skip the ball as she’s still recovering from a wisdom tooth removal done the week prior to the ball.
“As much as I’d like to attend the ball, I’m still recovering from my wisdom tooth removal last week. My face is still swollen and there’s still pain and discomfort from the surgery. Thank you for the support,” she stated on her Instagram.
6 and 7. Mateo Guidicelli and Sarah Geronimo
Lovebirds Mateo Guidicelli and Sarah Geronimo were spotted at International Airport for their trip to Bali, Indonesia to celebrate their 6th anniversary.
8. Kristine Hermosa
One of the beautiful faces in show business has been absent from the ball for two consecutive years now.
9. John Lloyd Cruz
The actor was invited to join the annual ball, which he again turned down.
10. Julia Montes
Kapamilya actress Julia Montes has been on a showbiz hiatus for almost a year now.
In her absence, netizens are speculating that the actress gave birth to her baby with her rumored love interest Coco Martin last March. Though there were no confirmations on the allegations, many still believe that it was true.
11. Ellen Adarna
Ellen Adarna allegedly was not invited to the annual prestigious event. This sparked speculations that she is no longer a Kapamilya actress.
12 and 13. Mariel Rodriguez and Robin Padilla
It’s Showtime host Mariel Rodriguez left the country days before the Kapamilya Network big event to give birth to her second baby girl in the United States.
The host shared a photo of herself together with Robin Padilla and their first born, Isabella.
14. Angel Locsin
The General’s Daughter star Angel Locsin decided not to join the ball as fellow stars descended on the red carpet. In her instagram post, the actress posted her reason of not joining.
“As for me, I decided to do my share in a way that I could probably be more of use. I think it would be better for me to donate directly to Bantay Bata the amount that I’m supposed to spend in the ball. It’s not much, but will help make a difference to someone else’s life,” she posted.
15. Catriona Gray
Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray was not able to join the ABS-CBN Ball 2019 due to her commitments.
Days before the Philippine gala night, the Pinay Beauty Queen graced the New York Fashion Week, followed by photoshoots for Xpedition Middle East Magazine.
