Smile Ambassadors Catriona Gray, Maricel Soriano, Moira Dela Torre, and Kai Montinola graced the first-ever Urban Smiles Congress 2025 on Friday, January 31, 2025. Bea Cuadra, ABS-CBN News

 MANILA— Big stars graced the first-ever Urban Smiles Congress 2025 at a mall in Makati City on Friday, January 31. 

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, Diamond Star Maricel Soriano, Singer-songwriter Moira Dela Torre, and PBB Gen 11 4th Big Placer Kai Montinola shared their insights on transforming lives and inspiring confidence with the power of having a bright and radiant smile.

As a Smile Ambassador, Soriano stressed the importance of being cautious of one’s oral health at an early age as having a beautiful smile reflects confidence, poise, and sincerity.

“Sa akin importante yung smile kasi alam mo, yung smile nanggagaling dito (from the heart) diba. Lalabas ngayon ‘yan sa mukha mo [at] gaganda ka,” she reflected.

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Montinol meanwhile expressed her enthusiasm on representing the Gen Zs in initiatives like this. She agreed with the Diamond star’s sentiments on prioritizing oral health to help boost one’s confidence.

“As an 18-year-old, confidence at self-esteem [are] something I value talaga not just for me but for our generation, the young–the youth. It’s very important to have those building blocks be set at an early age kasi madadala mo talaga siya once you get older,” she shared.

Singer-songwriter and mental health advocate Moira Dela Torre said she is truly grateful to be one of the Smile Ambassadors.

“To be able to be an ambassador of an establishment that cares for people, it’s such an honor,” Dela Torre said.

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Ruel Apostol, CEO of Urban Smiles Dental Clinic shared that they also launched their company’s corporate social responsibility, “Project Share A Smile,” catering to the dental needs of kids who cannot afford to pay dental fees.

“We are trying to provide for those who are really in need through our causes and the different advocacies like Project Share A Smile,” Apostol shared.

Dr. Ralph Delas Alas (Dr. RFD), president of Urban Smiles said that beyond his career responsibilities, he is open to spreading cheer, enticing laughter, and bringing smiles to people’s faces.

“As for me being a dentist, of course, it is not just work but it is really my mission and vision really to transform and create beautiful smiles,” he said.

The event also gathered industry experts, advocates, and other renowned personalities to raise awareness of oral health and contribute to shaping the future of dental wellness.