In an unprecedented move that stunned and delighted fans across the Philippines, ABS-CBN and GMA Network—the country’s two biggest broadcast giants—joined forces to create “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.” This landmark partnership marks a turning point in Philippine entertainment history, symbolizing a new era of collaboration over rivalry, and celebrating the power of unity through one of the nation’s most beloved reality shows.
The Birth of a Historic Collaboration
After decades of fierce competition, ABS-CBN and GMA set aside rivalries to deliver an iconic season of “Pinoy Big Brother” (PBB). Announced in early 2025, the collaboration was described as a “gift to Filipino fans” by both networks’ executives, including GMA’s Senior Vice President Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, who emphasized the importance of bridging audiences and fostering solidarity in local entertainment.
Fans were immediately intrigued: How would Kapuso and Kapamilya celebrities coexist under one roof? Would the classic Big Brother rules be enough to manage the new dynamics?
A Fusion of Talents: The Hosting Dream Team
Bringing this bold vision to life is an equally bold roster of hosts. Longtime Kapamilya favorites Bianca Gonzalez, Robi Domingo, Kim Chiu, Melai Cantiveros, Enchong Dee, and Alexa Ilacad are joined by Gabbi Garcia and Mavy Legaspi—marking the first time prominent Kapuso stars have officially hosted a PBB season. This move was met with widespread excitement, with many praising how natural the chemistry felt despite the networks’ past rivalry.
Gabbi Garcia, in particular, was celebrated for her historic hosting role, bringing in a fresh Kapuso energy that balanced the traditional Kapamilya hosting style.
A Unique Twist: The Duo System
To highlight the collaboration theme, the housemates are paired into Kapuso-Kapamilya duos. Every task, nomination, and eviction is faced as a team, with the innovative format ensuring contestants must learn to work with someone outside their “home network.”
The twist: At season’s end, two Big Winners will be crowned—one Kapuso and one Kapamilya—cementing the show’s spirit of equal recognition.
The Celebrity Housemates
Initially welcoming 15 housemates, the roster later expanded to 20, balancing talents from both Sparkle GMA Artist Center and Star Magic. Among them were:
- Emilio Daez, brother of Mikael Daez
- Bianca de Vera, breakout actress
- Vince Maristela, model-actor
- Xyriel Manabat, child star-turned-teen actress
- Shuvee Etrata, fresh Sparkle talent
Housemates like Emilio Daez captured hearts with their authenticity. Though Emilio and partner Michael Sager were eliminated early after public voting, Emilio’s family—especially Megan Young and Mikael Daez—expressed their overwhelming support and pride on social media.
Current PBB Duos as of today, April 29:
Ralph De Leon and Josh Ford
Vince Maristela and River Joseph
Dustin Yu and Xyriel Manabat
Klarisse De Guzman and AZ Martinez
Mika Salamanca and Esnyr
Will Ashley and Brent Manalo
Bianca De Vera and Shuvee Etrata
Star-Studded House Guests
Adding more glitter to the already stellar season, house guests—often surprise entries—have spiced up life inside the house. Here’s a look at some major entries:
- Ivana Alawi posed as a secret housemate on a mission to fool her housemates.
- Mavy Legaspi re-entered the house to reunite with real-life girlfriend Ashley Ortega.
- Michelle Dy, beauty influencer, entered to mentor housemates on self-presentation and confidence.
- Gabbi Garcia officially stepped inside to engage with housemates and transition into her hosting role.
- South Korean actor Kim Ji Soo made history as the first non-Filipino celebrity house guest, giving international flavor to the edition.
- BINI’s Stacey and Jhoanna, from the hit P-pop group, energized the house with performances and challenges.
- Donny Pangilinan, beloved actor-singer, surprised everyone as the “messenger,” bringing both tasks and surprises that challenged house dynamics.
Each guest brought fresh energy, deepened the cultural mix, and kept audiences guessing what would happen next.
Broadcast and Reach
“Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition” isn’t just a TV phenomenon—it’s a multi-platform success. The show airs:
- Weekdays at 10:00 PM on GMA Network
- Weekends at 6:15 PM
- Streaming live via Kapamilya Online Live, Kapuso Stream, and iWantTFC
This wide distribution has allowed both Kapuso and Kapamilya fans around the world to tune in, breaking viewership records for a reality show collaboration.
Why This Season Matters
Beyond the glitz and the drama, this season symbolizes growth and healing in the entertainment industry. It’s proof that when former competitors work together, the results can be extraordinary. The show offers more than just entertainment—it’s a message of hope, resilience, and collaboration in a time when Filipinos crave unity.
As “PBB Celebrity Collab Edition” moves toward its grand finale, excitement continues to build over who will emerge as the first-ever dual Big Winners. One thing is certain: win or lose, the spirit of collaboration has already triumphed.
