The Philippine Star
August 26, 2025 | 12:00am
The “GMA Gala 2025” was more than just a night of glitz and elegance — it served as a meaningful tribute to the people whose dedication and contributions have shaped and strengthened the Kapuso network throughout the years.
Icons and esteemed partners came together for GMA’s most glamorous annual event, made even more memorable as it celebrated its 75th anniversary alongside Sparkle GMA Artist Center’s 30th year of nurturing Filipino talent.
Held at the Marriott Grand Ballroom on Aug. 2, the evening featured the GMA Gala 2025 Awards, honoring artists and unforgettable moments. A highlight of the night was the Hall of Fame induction of Marian Rivera, Dingdong Dantes, Heart Evangelista and Alden Richards.
Richard Yap and Cassy Legaspi.
This year’s gala not only celebrated the stars but also paid tribute to very important individuals, who have shaped the company’s values and guided its continued success.
Special recognition was given to the network’s pillars: the Duavit, Gozon and Jimenez families.
At the helm of the Duavit family was GMA Network president and CEO Gilberto Duavit Jr., whose leadership has guided the network’s strategic direction. His commitment to excellence and public service has been instrumental in establishing GMA as a trusted and innovative media organization. Alongside him was Judith Duavit-Vazquez, a valued member of the GMA Network Board of Directors, whose contributions continue to shape the network’s future.
Representing the Gozon family was GMA senior vice president for programming, talent management, worldwide and support group, and president of GMA Films, lawyer Annette Gozon-Valdes. Her dedication to both creative and operational excellence has cemented her role as a key figure in the network’s evolution and success.
Carmina Villarroel and husband Zoren Legaspi and GMA senior vice president Annette Gozon-Valdes with husband Shintaro Valdes.
While he was not present at the event, GMA Network chairman lawyer Felipe Gozon was warmly acknowledged. His visionary guidance remains a foundation of the network’s continued success.
From the Jimenez family, present during the gala were Joel Jimenez, chairman of the GMA Network Executive Committee, whose leadership remains vital to the network’s executive direction, and Laura Jimenez-Westfall, who plays an active role as a member of the Board of Directors. Also in attendance that night were Menardo Jimenez, former GMA president and CEO, and his wife, Carolina G. Jimenez, who continues to serve as a member of the GMA Kapuso Foundation Board of Trustees.
A key highlight of the “GMA Gala” was its commitment to giving back. Before the event, GMA Network and Sparkle launched a meaningful pre-gala donation drive to support communities affected by recent typhoons and the Southwest Monsoon. A total of P2.5M million, including P500,000 from BingoPlus Foundation, was donated to the GMA Kapuso Foundation.
