Big winners

The year 2025 will be remembered as a banner year for Filipinos conquering global stages. Pageantry delivered historic pride as Emma Tiglao and CJ Opiaza secured back-to-back Miss Grand International crowns in Thailand, reaffirming the Philippines’ dominance in the international pageant circuit and sustaining the country’s reputation as a global beauty powerhouse. The winning streak in international competitions extended beyond pageants, with Sofronio Vasquez emerging victorious on The Voice, while Jessica Sanchez completed a long and emotional journey by winning America’s Got Talent, a triumph that resonated deeply with Filipino audiences worldwide. In the Miss Universe arena, Ahtisa Manalo added another strong chapter to the country’s legacy with her finish as third runner-up at Miss Universe 2025, earning admiration for her grace, intelligence, and consistency throughout the competition.

Big career comebacks

Nostalgia proved its strength in 2025 with the triumphant return of the SexBomb dancers, whose comeback became one of the year’s most talked-about entertainment moments. The iconic group staged two massive sold-out concerts — first at the Araneta Coliseum on 4 December, followed by an equally successful show at the Mall of Asia Arena on 9 December. The overwhelming response from longtime fans and a new generation alike confirmed their enduring cultural impact. By year’s end, excitement was already building for a third and final concert slated for 2026, cementing their comeback as both commercially and emotionally victorious.

Concerts and live music boom

Live entertainment flourished across the Philippines in 2025, driven by the power of local artists and the steady influx of international superstars. Filipino acts dominated the local concert scene, led by SB19’s expansive “Simula at Wakas” World Tour, BINI’s sold-out Biniverse Tour, and Maki’s growing “Maki-Concert” series that reached Cebu and other key cities. Acts like IV OF SPADES continued to draw large crowds, proving that homegrown talent could sustain arena-level demand. On the international front, the country hosted a packed lineup that included Maroon 5, Aurora, Day6, Taeyang, wave to earth, ENHYPEN, Nick Carter, Kyuhyun, M2M, Boys II Men, G-Dragon, Jason Derulo and Tyla. Massive events such as Waterbomb Manila added festival-scale energy, underscoring the Philippines’ status as a major hub for global tours.

Political and legal issues

The intersection of celebrity and politics took a sobering turn in 2025 as several well-known personalities entered the May midterm elections, only to face defeat and controversy. Angelika dela Cruz’s failed bid for vice mayor in Malabon unfolded alongside unresolved legal challenges linked to her time in local government. Former spouses Marjorie Barretto and Dennis Padilla both ran for councilor positions in different Caloocan districts but were unsuccessful, while actor Victor Neri’s mayoral run in Makati City also ended in defeat. These developments highlighted the growing scrutiny faced by celebrities seeking public office and the limitations of fame in the political arena.

Showbiz breakups

Heartbreak became part of the year’s narrative as several high-profile relationships came to an end. The split between Barbie Forteza and Jak Roberto early in the year stunned fans who had long viewed them as one of the industry’s most stable couples. Other notable separations followed, including Klea Pineda and Katrice Kierulf, Heaven Peralejo and Marco Gallo, Elisse Joson and McCoy de Leon, and Ellen Adarna and Derek Ramsay. Together, these breakups reinforced the emotional toll of life under constant public attention.

Showbiz weddings and renewals

Despite the heartbreaks, love stories still flourished in 2025, marked by grand weddings and meaningful vow renewals. Edgar Allan Guzman and Shaira Diaz finally tied the knot after years together, while Kiefer Ravena and Diana Mackey celebrated their union through two separate ceremonies. Zeinab Harake and Bobby Ray Parks Jr. staged picturesque weddings in Tagaytay and Palawan, drawing widespread attention. Meanwhile, vow renewals by couples such as Chito Miranda and Neri Naig, and Patrick Garcia and Nikka Martinez, offered heartwarming reminders of lasting partnerships. These celebrations, often styled with elaborate details and cinematic flair, dominated social media and entertainment headlines.

Showbiz deaths

The year was also marked by profound loss, as Philippine entertainment mourned the passing of legendary figures whose contributions shaped generations. The deaths of Nora Aunor, Hajji Alejandro, Gloria Romero, Pilita Corrales, Delia Razon, and other revered artists cast a reflective shadow over 2025. Their legacies — etched in film, music and collective memory — served as powerful reminders of the industry’s rich history and enduring influence.

A year that defined the industry

As 2025 comes to a close, it stands as a year defined by contrasts — historic wins and painful goodbyes, sold-out arenas and quiet defeats, public celebrations and private heartbreaks. More than anything, it reaffirmed the resilience of Filipino talent and the deep connection between artists and audiences. In all its highs and lows, 2025 proved once again that Philippine showbiz remains a living reflection of the nation’s aspirations, struggles and shared triumphs.