.jpg)
The spirit of festivity was in full swing as the Star Magic family officially unwrapped the holiday season in the most glamorous way possible, gathering for Star Magical Christmas 2025: Sleigh the Night.
Held at the opulent Okada Manila on November 23, the evening brought together both rising and seasoned Star Magic artists in their most creative and fashion-forward takes on holiday dressing, turning the red carpet into a full-blown Christmas runway. It was also a night of celebrating togetherness and milestones, honoring loyalty, and embracing the shared warmth of gratitude and giving back.
As part of its annual tradition, Star Magic channeled the heart of the holiday season toward meaningful causes, this year, devoting its Christmas charity efforts to the Philippine General Hospital Pediatric Unit. Just like the previous year, stars capped off their walk by dropping their toy donations into a giant gift box stationed at the end of the red carpet.
The red carpet officially opened with ABS-CBN Chief Operating Officer Cory Vidanes and Chief Finance Officer Ric Tan, followed by more Star Magic and ABS-CBN staff.
The first batch of artists to walk the red carpet were the young stars, and as expected, the Gen Z crowd proved they know exactly how to dress for a Christmas party, beginning with "What Lies Beneath" star Mutya Orquia, wearing a sparkly red-and-green ensemble that calls to mind a feminine Nutcracker soldier. The young ladies sprinkled just the right amount of glam and whimsicality, exactly what Heart Ramos, Chunsa Jung, Angelika Rama, and “Your Face Sounds Familiar” KaFamiliar Online Live host Krystal Brimner brought to the party.
As for the young gents, Andrez del Rosario and Lance Lucido clearly got the memo that the holidays are meant for fun and style, while Louise Abuel and Marc Santiago also brought their version of cool and clean holiday drip. Adding a playful twist to the batch was Igi Boy Flores, who arrived dressed as a deer—cutesy antlers and all
From their noontime duties, the “It’s Showtime” hosts and performers joined the celebration, trading in their mics for merry looks as they partied the night away.
"Showtime Online U’s” Lorraine Galvez and Wize Estabillo brought the same chemistry they deliver daily on the online world, only this time, wrapped in holiday-ready looks that matched the night’s glitzy mood. And what’s a Christmas party without music? “Tawag ng Tanghalan” graduates Marko Rudio, Reiven Umali, JM Dela Cerna, and JM Yosures likewise flaunted his best Christmas ensembles.
Even Santa would double-tap these looks! If holiday fashion had a comment section, these stars would be trending! Jameson Blake just proved that blue is suited for holiday runway as he sprinkled some leading man appeal on the red carpet.
Karina Bautista, definitely one of netizens' favorites, looked like she walked straight out of an enchanting mermaid-core holiday cover shoot. And our kawaii girl Kaori Oinuma was giving sultry 'Barbie' in pink! While we see Dia Mate transform into music icons on "Your Face Sounds Familiar" weekly, on the red carpet, the Star Magical Christmas first-timer morphed into a holiday muse, draped in a festive style that was certainly on the nice list. Sharing the spotlight is the season’s rising sweetheart from "Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11," Kai Montinola, back for her second Star Magical Christmas appearance, but bringing a little more confidence to the celebration in her liquid gold ball gown.
Also spotted wearing their festive ensembles were Aya Fernandez, Lou Yanong, Diego Gutierrez, Angelina Cruz, and JP Cabrera of "PBB Gen 11."
We love reunions during the Christmas season, which is why the OG "PBB Collab Edition" housemates showing up on the red carpet was a total heart-eyes moment. Leading the pack was Brent Manalo, dressed in a steel-gray military jacket with polished silver buttons and a dramatic red rose pinned to his chest, and was undeniably still donning that Big Winner glow. No surprise he earned Metro’s Best Dressed Male Award!
If Brent was giving leading-man-in-a-holiday-love-story, River Joseph walked in with full-on Christmas prince realness. Emilio Daez, who hosted the main program, channeled storybook charm in a plush red velvet coat and crisp white cravat. Adding tons of sass to the gathering were Kira Balinger, looking regal and radiant in royal blue; and Esnyr, who stole the show in a full gingerbread-couture fantasy that screamed high-fashion Christmas whimsy.
Midway through the red carpet, the Yuletide heat index suddenly spiked with the arrival of the hottest Star Magic boys.
Sam Milby brought sleek holiday warmth in a camel suit, while Enchong Dee went for the laidback route in a denim-blue jacket and crisp trousers. Decked out in ensembles that defined holiday dapper, Ashton Salvador, Kobie Brown of "PBB Connect" and Jarren Garcia, Dylan Yturralde, Binsoy namoca, and Marc Nanninga of "PBB Gen 11" proved that they are truly gifts that keep on giving.
Move over, Santa, baby, because these handsome BGYO 'BBs' just delivered the most magnetic moment of the night! Gelo, Akira, JL, Nate, and Mikki were wrapped in coordinated shades of red and caramel leather, so fashionable on the red carpet that "all the ladies" would surely line up to meet them under the mistletoe.
More heartthrobs came in, turning the red carpet into the hottest spot in town. These guys were wrapped in an appeal so magnetic that girls would surely line up just for a chance to say hello! "Roja" star Kyle Echarri kept it cool in a powder-blue suit. Naturally, he knows how to win over a crowd with those eyeglasses, and that smile that feels like a little Christmas magic on its own!
Following a year defined by new frontiers and success, both in front of and behind the camera (he got to try his hand at directing for the first time via his lead-role teleserye "Sins of the Father"), Gerald Anderson also graced the red carpet, looking every bit the holiday gentleman in his soft gray velvet suit, made even more charming by a boutonniere with red berries and a tiny pinecone accent.
And of course, the night wouldn’t be complete without "FPJ's Batang Quiapo" actor Jake Cuenca, who effortlessly commanded the red carpet with his cool-guy dapper style (complete with statement shades, of course!). Adding to the festive cheer was Luis Manzano, who arrived with his radiant wife Jessy Mendiola. Luis brought his signature charm, while Jessy matched the night’s sparkle with her effortless elegance on the red carpet. Another fashionable couple of the night, Joem Bascon and Meryll Soriano put a vintage spin into their holiday dressing.
The ladies sleighed the night just as hard. Anji Salvacion brought sharp, modern elegance in her white suit-inspired ensemble—structured at the top, soft and flowy at the bottom, like a chic twist on winter whites. Maymay Entrata, on the other hand, leaned into bold holiday drama with her black polka-dot peplum look
All we want for Christmas is BINI! The appearance of the OT8 was, without a doubt, one of the most-anticipated happenings of the evening, as they have cemented their status as the queens of the annual holi-sleigh! This year, the girls walked the red carpet dressed in a mix of silver sparkles, black and white accents, and metallic textures that felt straight out of a glam Christmas fantasy. Screenshot the 'fits for your holiday mood board!
Where are our BisDak ladies at? Here they are, flaunting their best holiday-themed looks on the red carpet. All eyes were on Kim Chiu as she made her Star Magical Christmas debut in a white-silver dress that shimmered like fresh winter frost. "FPJ's Batang Quiapo" star Maris Racal arrived in a rich emerald gown with a satin-like sheen, its asymmetric folds and high-slit silhouette giving her that effortless mix of sophistication and festive drama.
Sharing the spotlight were this season’s rising sweethearts from “PBB Gen 11” — Rain Celmar in a soft purple halter gown and Kolette Madelo in a lovely blue number.
Also spotted on the red carpet was KD Estrada, keeping things crisp and classic in a white suit, and Reich Alim, fresh from the “PBB Collab 2.0” house, stepping out in a pink-and-red bow-front dress that matched her sweet, confident energy perfectly.
Santa, it's cold outside, but the kilig on the red carpet is bringing the warmth! The red carpet not only showcased the most fabulous holiday looks but also the sweetness of our favorite Star Magic pairs.
JM Ibarra and Fyang Smith arrived looking so good together—JM sporting a forest green blazer, matching Fyang's deep ruby red dress with sculptural tulle details. They're the colors of Christmas! And we've found the literal embodiment of Yuletide happiness—Francine Diaz and Seth Fedelin in matchy blue outfits.
Oh, the way RK Bagatsing and Jane Oineza’s eyes met could rival the glow of the star atop any Christmas tree. And if this season is filled with Christmas bells, we definitely heard a hint of wedding bells when newly engaged couple Loisa Andalio and Ronnie Alonte arrived in matching plaid suits.
Of course, Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano looked effortlessly romantic on the red carpet—Donny in classic green, and Belle in a sparkling nude dress. Just like hot cocoa and marshmallows make a perfect pair on Christmas nights, so do DonBelle, whose effervescent chemistry is simply the ultimate holiday sweet treat!
After the red carpet parade, the celebration eased into the main program, hosted by Emilio Daez and Aiyanna Perlas. The ceremony opened with a beautifully festive number by the University of the Philippines Symphony Orchestra, setting a warm Christmas tone that filled the ballroom. As part of the night’s tradition of giving back, Star Magic devoted this year’s charity efforts to the Philippine General Hospital Pediatric Unit, with the Okada Foundation also presenting its one-million-peso donation to PGH.
The evening grew emotional when ABS-CBN COO Cory Vidanes delivered her heartfelt message of love and appreciation for the Star Magic family—artists and staff alike—honoring their unwavering commitment to excellence, storytelling, and service to the Filipino people.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the program was the conferring of the Loyalty Awards to Star Magic artists who have been with the agency the longest. This year, seven A-listers were honored for their remarkable 20 years with Star Magic.
First to be saluted was Gerald Anderson, whose name has become synonymous with intensity and action, not just in the roles he portrays, but in his passion for service and his courageous work during calamities. In his speech, Gerald expressed his amusement and disbelief that it has already been 20 years since he first entered “Pinoy Big Brother” as a teen housemate, thus urging the younger generation to savor every moment, because time truly flies.
Gerald, who just finished "Sins of the Father," also expressed deep gratitude to the late Dreamscape Entertainment head Deo Endrinal, who believed in him during his early years, especially when he was entrusted with the lead role in "Budoy." As his promise to Star Magic and ABS-CBN, Gerald said he will continue going above and beyond for the many characters and stories yet to come.
Jake Cuenca’s artistry lies in his relentless and fearless pursuit of realism, whether he is inhabiting a dashing hero or a complex, shadowed antagonist—a commitment that makes his Loyalty Award all the more fitting. As one of this year’s 20-year awardees, the "FPJ’s Batang Quiapo" and "What Lies Beneath" star looked back on two decades he described as nothing short of fun—even more so with all the “crazy” roles he’s taken on. For Jake, when you genuinely love what you do, you show up on set without ever feeling like you’re working.
Offering advice to younger artists, Jake encouraged them to take care of every opportunity that comes their way. He shared that his own beginnings weren’t easy; he struggled during his early years in the industry until ABS-CBN took him in during his fifth year as an actor, giving him a home where his talent could be nurtured. He added that the lowest points in life can become powerful fuel for one’s performances. Jake ended his speech by thanking everyone he has worked with throughout the many projects that have shaped his 20-year journey.
Known in the industry as the rare actor who prizes substance over star power, Joem Bascon has mastered the art of delivering powerful performances across both mainstream teleseryes and critically acclaimed independent films, proving that versatility and commitment are what truly anchor an enduring legacy. It is this very foundation that made his Loyalty Award especially meaningful.
Joem shared that he actually began his ABS-CBN journey as an employee, part of the workshop staff who prepared and set up the training areas for artists. Director Jerry Lopez Sineneng eventually noticed him during those early years and later cast him in "Maalaala Mo Kaya" episodes, which opened the door to acting. He dedicated his Loyalty Award to his handlers, road managers, and the Star Magic family who supported him throughout his two decades with the agency.
Zanjoe Marudo also took a trip down memory lane as he accepted his Loyalty Award. The OG TDH (Tall, Dark, and Handsome) of his generation recalled how Laurenti Dyogi once searched for him after spotting him in an ad, eventually inviting him to audition for the very first “PBB Celebrity Edition.”
With fondness, he remembered how, while many of his contemporaries were being groomed as romantic leading men, he was cast as the father of a young Andrea Brillantes in "Annaliza." That role, followed by several more lead projects, slowly shaped the 20-year journey he has built with Star Magic.
After a holly-jolly caroling performance by “ASAP” stars Jed Madela, Angeline Quinto, Nyoy Volante, Reiven Umali, JM Yosures, and JM Dela Cerna, together with Vina Morales, the program continued with the fifth Loyalty Awardee, Sam Milby, who has grown from being the nation’s ultimate “crush ng bayan” crooner into one of Star Magic’s most enduring leading men.
Sam looked back on his early journey, sharing that after joining the very first edition of "Pinoy Big Brother," he had no clear idea what direction to take. But Star Magic took a chance on him, pulling him into workshops and guiding him through the process — a learning experience that has never really stopped. Reflecting on the past two decades, Sam said the journey has been full of surprises, but undeniably amazing.
Enchong Dee admitted with honesty and humor that when he was starting out, he didn’t know anything about performing. "Mabuti na lang makapal ang mukha ko," he joked. He recalled that in those early days, he had no senior actors to mentor him, no reality show that handed him a big break. What he had then, and still has today, is his manager, Monch Novales, and the entire Star Magic family who never left his side even through his lowest points.
That is why Enchong promises the next generation of artists that he’ll be there for them the way others were there for him—as their Kuya, ready to share his time and experiences, and to remind them that Star Magic is, and will always be, family.
Kim Chiu held back tears as she received her Loyalty Award, marking her 20 strong years with Star Magic. In her speech, she shared one of the most resonant lessons she has learned in her two-decade journey, "Your talent will open doors for you, but your attitude will define how long those doors will stay open."
She encouraged younger artists to stay grateful for every opportunity, big or small, because those little opportunities eventually build the foundation of a lasting career. She also reminded them to show up onstage without carrying personal burdens, saying that this is the life she, and likely all of them in that ballroom chose: to entertain, to work hard, and to serve the Filipino audience with the best of their craft.
The night wouldn’t end without celebrating the standout fashion moments from the red carpet. Metro awarded the Best Dressed Male to Brent Manalo, whose polished, princely look captivated everyone.
Best Dressed Female went to Jessy Mendiola, who looked radiant in a deep-red, strapless gown with elegant ruching that framed her silhouette beautifully.
With its dazzling red carpet parade, heartfelt recognitions, and the shared warmth of a family coming together, Star Magical Christmas 2025 has truly ushered in the holiday season in the most magical way!