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5 Pinoy Big Brother Moments That Proved They’re a Family Through and Through

by Alexa Villano
July 9, 2025

Pinoy Big Brother may be a competition, but this celebrity edition showed they could be one big happy family

A new winner was crowned last July 5, with the duo of Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca emerging as champions in the first-ever collaboration edition between GMA and ABS-CBN artists. This marked the first time talents from the once rival stations lived together for 110 days inside the famous house.

But beyond the competition, a genuine camaraderie formed. Over those three months, the housemates—despite their differences—grew into a family. We rounded up five moments that proved just how much.

Pinoy Big Brother may be a competition, but this celebrity edition showed they could be one big happy family — Photo from pbbcollab

Gabbi Garcia’s Brief Stay Left a Lasting Impression

Pinoy Big Brother is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and this season, Gabbi Garcia—one of the edition’s hosts—had the chance to step inside as a house guest. As part of her task, Kuya asked Gabbi to be his bridge in getting to know the nominated housemates by inviting them into the task room to open up about their loved ones.

Meanwhile, Esynr and Bianca de Vera, who are close to Gabbi in real life, were asked to plan a farewell party after her four-day stay. The celebration, which included a fun dance number from the Pinoy Big Boys, capped off with Gabbi’s heartfelt message: she was looking forward to seeing everyone again after their time inside.

Michelle Dee’s Reyna Moment with the Housemates

Miss Universe Philippines 2023 Michelle Dee also joined as a house guest and brought more than just poise and pageant experience. She mentored the housemates in a ramp challenge and, more importantly, became a source of comfort and wisdom.

Under her watch, singer Klarisse de Guzman shared with the house that she is bisexual—a moment of openness met with support. Michelle also comforted Mika Salamanca after a tough challenge. As she exited, Michelle thanked Kuya for the opportunity, saying there was indeed magic in the house that allowed people to connect in ways that felt real and lasting.

Shuvee Entrata and Will Ashley Soothe Klarisse de Guzman After an Emotional Night

One of the most talked-about moments came after a night out with the housemates and guest Donny Pangilinan. Klarisse de Guzman became emotional and, in an overwhelmed state, jumped into the pool. Shuvee Entrata immediately dove in—lapel mic and all—to make sure Klarisse was safe.

Will Ashley, who considers Klarisse an ate (they also affectionately call her “mowm”), followed in to help. After pulling her out, Will and Esynr comforted Klarisse as she broke down. It was a vulnerable, human moment—one that showed just how deep the bonds had become. These weren’t just housemates anymore; they were each other’s safe space.

Shoot for the Letters

In another episode featuring Donny Pangilinan, the housemates were challenged to shoot a basketball hoop, with each basket unlocking a certain number of words from letters written by their loved ones. They succeeded, with AZ Martinez getting to read a long-awaited letter from her then-boyfriend that gave her clarity about their relationship.

As a gesture of gratitude to Donny, who helped coach them through the task, the housemates also made a basket for him, unlocking a heartfelt letter from his mom, actress Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan.

The Visit from Their Loved Ones

It wasn’t just the celebrity guests who brought warmth into the house—the most powerful moments came from family.

During the Carnival concert, Klarisse, Vince Maristela, Brent Manalo, and AZ Martinez earned golden seats that allowed them to see their moms. Brent, in a quiet act of generosity, gave up his seat for Mika so she could see her mom and perform with peace of mind.

Another emotional highlight: Bianca de Vera reunited with her parents after learning about the death of her beloved dog. In the lead-up to the finale, the remaining duos were also given the chance to reconnect with their families, just before facing their final challenges.

Seeing their loved ones reminded the housemates why they kept going—and who they were doing it for.

Many Moments, Many Memories

Although Pinoy Big Brother is a competition, it’s also a mirror of real life. Some enter to discover themselves, others to honor their families, and some to simply be seen. But no matter the reason, the house has a way of turning strangers into something more—into a chosen family that sticks, even after the cameras stop rolling.