Liza Soberano's Fan-Filled Couture Gown At The Gold Gala 2026 Had Us Speechless

Liza Soberano definitely had her moment at this year's Gold House Gala. ICYDK, the annual event brings together some of the biggest Asian and Pacific Islander names making waves across entertainment, fashion, media, and pop culture. Over the years, the gala has become known for spotlighting creatives and changemakers pushing for better Asian representation on the global stage.

On May 12, the actress shared photos from the event on Instagram, showing off her glamorous look for the night. From her soft, curled bangs to her glowing makeup, everything felt effortlessly elegant. But of course, it was her couture gown by Vietnamese designer Phan Huy that truly stole the spotlight.

The nude strapless dress featured embroidered flowers, butterflies, crystals, and dramatic fan-like details sculpted around the silhouette. And if you're Filipino, chances are the design immediately reminded you of the intricate beauty of traditional hand fans.

The gown came from Phan Huy's Fall/Winter 2026 couture collection, which was presented at Paris Haute Couture Week, one of fashion's biggest stages for high craftsmanship and custom-made couture. And to make it even more special, the designer was the first Vietnamese and the youngest from their country to present at that event.

But Liza's night wasn't just about serving fashion moments. Together with Grammy-winning Filipino-American singer H.E.R., whom Liza affectionately called her "sister," she also shared an exclusive preview of their upcoming DreamWorks animated film, Forgotten Island.

We're all eyes on Liza's comeback animated film Forgotten Island, directed by the tandem Joel Crawford and Filipino-American Januel Mercado. This isn't the first time that we'll see—or hear—Liza's voice in an animation. In 2021, she was cast to voice Alexandra Trese for Netflix's first-ever Filipino original series, Trese. And for what feels like a happy coincidence, this Hollywood film also features Philippine folklore and mythical creatures. 

If your fave tropes include friendship, self-discovery, and a little bit of mystical chaos, this coming-of-age film is about to be your next feel-good, heart-touching film obsession.

Set in the '90s, the story follows childhood besties Jo (voiced by H.E.R.) and Raissa (voiced by Liza), a pair of besties who promise to be "best friends forever". But their friendship is challenged once it becomes clear that they're heading in different directions after high school. On what is supposed to be their last night together, things take a sudden turn when they stumble upon a magical portal and get transported to the mysterious island of Nakali.

From there, it turns into a full-blown fantasy adventure. They encounter a mix of quirky and chaotic Filipino mythical creatures—some friendly and some not exactly welcoming—including a charming aswang or weredog and a terrifying manananggal. But beyond all the magic and mayhem, the real challenge is what it might cost them. The longer they stay on the island, the faster their memories get erased. 

Aside from Liza, the cast lineup is stacked with Filipino and Filipino-American talent that's already killing it on the global stage. Tony Award winner and international Broadway icon Lea Salonga also lent her voice for the film. Meanwhile, Jo Koy, the comedian whose stand-up specials and tours have made him a household name, brings his own flair. Dolly de Leon, Golden Globe–nominated for Triangle of Sadness, also joins the crew, adding her own star power to the mix.

The countdown is officially on: Forgotten Island premieres in Philippine cinemas on September 23, 2026, and we already know Liza is about to wow us once again—from the red carpet and up on the big screen!