Bench welcomes in a new year in the industry with an ageless celebration of style on film. For 25 years, Bench has redefined fashion into a lifestyle and established a strong brand tied closely with star power. The company never fails to surprise with this red carpet and certainly star-studded event. Everyone gathered together at the SM Mall of Asia Center Stage for an evening of entertainment. Benchingko Films brought together a collaboration of well-loved celebrities in the likes of Piolo Pascual, Coco Martin, Lovi Poe, Lucy Torres-Gomez and Bella Flores along with the country’s finest directors.

Hosted by Raymond Gutierrez, the evening started with the film 25 Bens which stars none other than the man behind the global fashion brand, Ben Chan. Among the 25 Bens came the story of how far the brand has come, of its plans for the Benchingko films, and of course a message of thanks to everyone who has been continuously believing and supporting in the brand.

The big screen debut formally started with the film musical, Kama, starring Lovi Poe. Accordingly, Coco Martin was seen in the film Horesepower, Piolo Pascual in Perya, Bella Flores in Kontrabida Parin at 84, and Lucy Torres-Gomez in Star Teacher. With genres so diverse from documentary to musical to comedy, the theatre was filled with laughter and applause throughout the night. Fans also came in to meet their idols, even bringing in placards to show their support. The night ended with the stars of the films and other Bench endorsers gracing the stage to show their support to the brand and simply to give their thanks to their fans as well.—MICHELLE MA BELLE

Photographed by Mabel Toh