MANILA -- Kapamilya stars Belle Mariano and Darren Espanto are gearing up for one of the biggest nights in Philippine entertainment—the "Brighter Together: ABS-CBN Ball 2025," happening on April 4. 

More than just a glamorous gathering, the highly anticipated event also serves as a night of giving back, as it benefits the ABS-CBN Foundation and its various charitable programs.

Mariano, fitting her gown with designer Francis Libiran, expressed her excitement about returning to the prestigious event.

Kapamilya star Belle Mariano. ABS-CBN News

“I’m so excited kasi it’s been two years since we all had this, you know, gathering, this ball, and it’s really something we all look forward to. And I’m really excited,” she shared.

Beyond the fashion and festivities, the ABS-CBN Ball is a night dedicated to a cause, which Mariano emphasized as one of its most meaningful aspects.

“In the simplest way we can, this is a way for us to show love and support and care to our beneficiaries, of course. And it’s really a night that we all look forward to,” she said.

When asked about her gown for the event, Mariano revealed that the theme revolves around spring, and she is eager to showcase the story behind her meticulously planned outfit.

“So the theme plays around spring po. So ang maganda doon is na-excite ako kasi may story ‘yung gown ko behind it. And it was really well-planned talaga. So, that’s something I’m looking forward to po,” she added.

Singer-actor Darren Espanto is equally thrilled about the event, not just for the chance to celebrate with fellow Kapamilya artists but also for its greater purpose.

“Lahat naman po ng artists, we try to make a pledge para sa ball and para po sa mga beneficiary ng ABS-CBN. And also, it’s very important na may mga ganito tayong events. Yes, nagkakaroon tayo ng mga balls where the artists get to have fun, nagkakasayahan. Pero of course, it’s also a reminder for all of us that this is also for a cause,” he explained.

Kapamilya singer-actor Darren Espanto. ABS-CBN News

He also praised ABS-CBN for continuing to prioritize its mission of service despite the challenges it faces.

“Kaya po natutuwa ako kasi naiisip pa rin ng ABS-CBN, kasi nga like they said, they’re in the service of the Filipino all the time. So even ‘yung mga events na ganito, it’s for a cause, which is really nice. Tsaka ang ganda na may natutulungan kaming lahat despite everything that’s happening sa network or sa company,” Espanto said.

Adding to his excitement, Espanto shared that he will be walking alongside his It’s Showtime family at this year’s ball.

“Excited din ako kasi parang this year, first time kong maglakad as a Showtime host. Opo. Kasi nakapaglakad kami bilang Showtime family sa GMA Gala. So, this year, first time ko naman maglakad as a Showtime host,” he revealed.

The "Brighter Together: ABS-CBN Ball 2025" is set to take place on April 4, with a special red carpet coverage available for live streaming on the ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel.

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