GMA Network hosts grand Thanksgiving and New Year celebration with Kapuso Countdown to 2026
As a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to Kapuso fans for their unwavering love and support throughout the year, GMA Network is set to welcome the New Year in grand fashion with “Kapuso Countdown to 2026,” a star-studded Thanksgiving celebration happening this Dec. 31.
Will Ashley
Taking place at the SM Mall of Asia Seaside Boulevard, the much-anticipated event brings together some of the brightest Kapuso stars for an unforgettable night of music, dance, and celebration. Leading the countdown are Julie Anne San Jose, Rayver Cruz, Christian Bautista, Rocco Nacino, Betong Sumaya, Angel Guardian Faith da Silva, and Kyline Alcantara, who will light up the stage as they usher in 2026 with the Kapuso community.
Mall-goers and fans may come as early as 6 PM to watch the much-awaited lantern parade
parade followed by the pre-show featuring international singer Bonnie Bailey alongside GMA Music artists Plume and Vilmark.
Rayver Cruz
Adding excitement to the festivities are the well-loved former housemates from the two editions of Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition—Will Ashley, AZ Martinez, Charlie Fleming, Vince Maristela, Marco Masa, Eliza Borromeo, Waynona Collings, and Lee Victor. The PBB ex-housemates are poised to headline the celebration’s first-ever lantern parade, featuring vibrant and creative designs inspired by iconic Kapuso programs and our sponsors.
Elevating the night’s grandeur, Emma Tiglao, Miss Grand International 2025, joins the show—her triumph marking the Philippines’ remarkable back-to-back victory on the international stage.
Kyline Alcantara
High-energy dance performances are set to take center stage with Stars on the Floor Ultimate Dance Star Duo Rodjun Cruz and Dasuri Choi, joined by celebrity and digital dance sensations Joshua Decena, JM Yrreverre, and Kitty; Kakai Almeda.
Filling the night are world-class musical performances Jessica Villarubin, Hannah Precillas, Naya Ambi, Tala Gatchalian, John Rex, Jong Madaliday, Anthony Rosaldo and Tanghalan ng Kampeon
2025 Grand Champion Bjorn Morta, promising a spectacular audio-visual experience for both live and home audiences.
Julie Anne San Jose
Representing PPop on the Kapuso Countdown stage is the group 1621, set to showcase their dynamic performances and undeniable charm, bringing in the kilig vibes that will thrill fans and add a fresh, heart‑fluttering energy to the night’s festivities.
SM Mall of Asia brings in the fan-favorite K-pop group AHOF, capping off the night with a youthful and electrifying performance. The celebration continues as Kapuso hosts lead the countdown to the New Year, culminating in spectacular fireworks displays across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Rodjun Cruz
One of the night’s highlights is the announcement of the winners of the pioneering GMANetwork.com Awards, where Kapuso fans get to see which personalities topped the online polls during the on-ground event. Awards to be given include New Kapuso Male and Female Star of the Year, Kapuso Male and Female Teen Star of the Year, Kapuso Couple and Love Team of the Year, Daytime and Primetime Drama Series of the Year, Kontrabida of the Year, and Comedian of the Year.
Feel the joy, gratitude, and holiday spirit as GMA Network welcomes 2026 with its solid Kapuso fans. Catch “Kapuso Countdown to 2026” on Dec. 31, 10:30 p.m. at the SM MOA Seaside Blvd in Pasay City. Gates open at 6 p.m., and admission is free.
Home viewers can also watch the celebration live on GMA-7, via Kapuso Stream, and on the ATM’s official YouTube channel, with a livestream hosted by Tim Yap, Sean Lucas, and Cheska Fausto, featuring special guests. (Robert Requintina)