While the country’s brightest stars dazzled on the blue carpet at the GMA Gala 2025, one familiar face was noticeably absent: comedian and entrepreneur Pokwang.
In her signature no-nonsense style, Pokwang didn’t shy away from explaining why she opted out of the star-studded event. Responding to a fan on social media, she wrote: “Nagluto po ako ng paninda ko sa Mamang Pokwang’s Gourmet. Meron po kasi deadline, mga bulk na order po.”
The actress-comedian went on to candidly share her thoughts on the pressures of public appearances:
“Attend ka ng gala, gagastos ka, e-effort ka, tapos lalaitin ka pa ng tao. Hahahaha! Edi magluto na lang ng paninda.”
nagluto po ako ng paninda ko sa Mamang Pokwang’s gourmet meron po kasi deadline mga bulk na order po. attend ka ng GALA gagastos ka e effort ka tapos lalaitin kapa ng tao hahahhaha edi magluto nalang ng paninda. https://t.co/cCU7tfPfPV
— marietta subong (@pokwang27) August 3, 2025
Pokwang was referring to her thriving small business, Mamang Pokwang’s Gourmet, which sells homemade Filipino delicacies such as laing, aligue, alamang, tuyo, and tinapa. The products are regularly promoted through her Instagram and Facebook pages.
Many netizens praised her practicality and hustle, especially as a single mom. One commenter said, “Tama, sayang ang pinambili mo ng gown. Magluto na lang, kumita ka pa.” Another added, “Love this mindset, Mamang! Forda kabuhayan muna, good decision.”
While some fans expressed regret that Pokwang missed the celebration—especially as the GMA Gala 2025 marked the network’s 75th anniversary—others admired her priorities.
The grand gala held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom on August 2 gathered the biggest names in the entertainment industry for a night of glitz, gratitude, and legacy. GMA Network President Gilberto R. Duavit Jr. reflected on the network’s journey from its humble beginnings as a radio station in 1950 to its present-day status as a multimedia giant. “Ours is a bond that drives us to always be better at what we do,” Duavit said in his address.
Yet amid the glamour, Pokwang’s absence stood as a quiet reminder that not all success wears sequins.
