The Star Magical Christmas: Sleigh the Night became even more meaningful as ABS-CBN and Star Magic paid tribute to artists whose talent, commitment, and loyalty have continued to shine through the years. Beyond the glitz of the red carpet, the evening at Okada Manila on November 23, turned into a celebration of the stars who have grown, evolved, and remained steadfast under the Star Magic banner.
Among the artists honored with the 20-Year Loyalty Award was Gerald Anderson, who looked back at the fast passage of time. In his acceptance speech, he reflected: “20 years, wow. Ang bilis. Feeling ko kakalabas ko lang ng PBB last week.”
His advice for younger artists was to work hard while enjoying every moment. He also expressed gratitude to those who guided him along the way.
“I will go above and beyond if given the privilege to do characters, to do stories that serve the Filipino people. I will always be here for ABS-CBN,” dedicating his award to rescuers and donors who helped during recent calamities.
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Jake Cuenca also received a 20-Year Loyalty Award and described his two decades as “20 years of amazing projects, 20 years of crazy roles, but 20 years of having fun.”
He recalled the difficult early years before joining ABS-CBN, saying his career “dramatically changed” when the network took him seriously. For his fellow artists, he offered a reminder: “Be personal with your work. Never waste a shot, never waste a line.”
“All of us here in this room made the choice to stay in ABS-CBN because this is where brilliance comes from; this is where excellence comes form. And if you are an artist, this is where you want to be,” Jake expressed.
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Also marking his 20th year was Joem Bascon, who fondly shared his humble beginnings. As he began his speech, he revealed a fun fact for everyone: “Empleyado po ako ng ABS-CBN before. Nag part-time ako sa talent center. Ako ‘yung nag-aayos ng workshop area nung nagwo-work po ako sa ABS-CBN.”
He dedicated his award to handlers, road managers, and everyone he had with his journey. He acknowledged their hard work and also honored the late directors who helped launch his acting career.
Zanjoe Marudo, in his signature humor, opened with, “Sa mga pinanganak noong 2006, ako po si Zanjoe Marudo,” before recalling how lessons from his PBB stay shaped the way he treats colleagues.
With his 20-year loyalty award, he thanked ABS-CBN and Star Magic: “Nagpapasalamat ako sa ABS-CBN dahil sa lahat ng opportunities na ibinigay niyo sa akin.”
For Sam Milby, the milestone of receiving a 20-year loyalty award felt surreal. “It does not feel like it has been 20 years at all.”
Grateful that Star Magic gave him both a breakthrough and a lasting career, he said: “As a newbie, you always hope for at least one of two things. You’re hoping for one big break to start your career and you want a career that lasts. And I'm so grateful to Star Magic for giving me the opportunity to experience both.”
Enchong Dee looked back at his early days as he received his 20-year loyalty award. “20 years ago when I started, aaminin ko po I have zero talent. I don’t know how to dance, to act, to host, I don't know anything about the showbiz industry.”
He shared how his eagerness drove him to attend all workshops. “Pero buti na lang makapal yung mukha ko talaga. Kasi kung meron pong attendance ng workshop sa Star Magic, lagi po akong nandon. From acting workshop, to dance workshop, lahat po sinalihan ko kasi gusto ko ‘tong ginagawa ko.”
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Kim Chiu, who also reached her 20-year milestone, thanked Star Magic, saying: “Thank you for not just giving me this beautiful career, for guiding me for the entire 20 years, but also for giving me a home.”
She recalled entering the industry with nothing but dreams and the hope of helping her family. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “Nagsimula din ako without any talent. But what I only had were dreams and the hope na sana maitawid ko ‘yung pamilya ko. And ‘yung isang dream ko rin na mapanuod sa TV every day, after 20 years, parang everyday pa rin naman, so thank you so much.”
“What I learned with those 20 years is that your talent will bring you in the room and open doors for you. But your attitude will define how long those doors will stay open. Kaya let’s never forget to say thank you,” she emphasized, before dedicating her award to the teams and supporters who stayed with her throughout her journey.
The festive energy carried on with an eye-catching moment from Esnyr Ranollo, who turned the red carpet into his own runway. His striking ensemble earned him SHEIN’s “Sleighable Look of the Night”.
The night also spotlighted standout red carpet arrivals. Jessy Mendiola was named Metro’s Best Dressed, stunning in a classic red Anthony Ramirez gown that balanced elegance and simplicity.
Another recognition for Metro’s Best Dressed went to Brent Manalo, whose structured grey jacket and sleek silhouette made a strong impression, punctuated by a red rose that tied his whole look together.
Meanwhile, Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin, known as FranSeth, charmed the crowd and earned Star Magic’s Couple of the Night award, which came with an executive suite stay and buffet treat.
Applause echoed through the hall as each awardee embraced their moment, an affirmation of their long-standing dedication to their craft and to the Kapamilya community. Wrapped in holiday sparkle and gratitude, the night underscored the legacy Star Magic continues to build, one shaped by artists who inspire audiences and set the bar higher with every project, performance, and milestone.