20 years of PBB: A look back at the show's Big Winners
IN 2005, ABS-CBN introduced the global reality competition franchise "Big Brother" to the Philippines, based on the original Dutch series created by John de Mol Jr. The show quickly became a cultural phenomenon under the local title "Pinoy Big Brother" (PBB), earning the tagline "Ang Teleserye ng Totoong Buhay" for its unique blend of reality, drama, and human stories.
Over the past two decades, PBB has opened its doors to 412 housemates across 17 seasons, producing 18 Big Winners who captivated audiences with their authenticity, resilience, and inspiring journeys. Despite challenges such as the ABS-CBN shutdown and the Covid-19 pandemic, the franchise remained a staple in Filipino households, proving its enduring appeal.
As PBB marks its 20th anniversary in 2025, it is set to make history once again with the PBB Celebrity Edition Collab—a groundbreaking collaboration between ABS-CBN and its former rival, GMA Network. For the first time, artists from Star Magic and Sparkle will share the iconic Bahay ni Kuya, with the season set to premiere on March 9, 2025.
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Before we witness this historic edition, let’s take a nostalgic journey down memory lane, revisiting some of the most unforgettable Big Winners who have left an indelible mark on PBB’s legacy.
Nene Tamayo – PBB Season 1 (2005)
Dubbed "Kumander Nene" for her military background and natural leadership, Jennivev "Nene" Tamayo was the first-ever PBB Big Winner. The Romblon native earned admiration for her unwavering determination, particularly when she stood up to Kuya in defense of her fellow housemate. Today, Nene enjoys a quiet life away from the spotlight, focused on family and business ventures.
Keanna Reeves – PBB Celebrity Edition 1 (2006)
Despite facing public scrutiny before entering the house, Keanna Reeves proved her worth by showing genuine care for her housemates, particularly Rustom Padilla (now BB Gandanghari). Her authenticity and motherly presence won the hearts of both her peers and the audience. Keanna remains active in showbiz, with recent roles in "Hoy, Love You!" under ABS-CBN.
Kim Chiu – PBB Teen Edition 1 (2006)
Before becoming the "Chinita Princess" and one of ABS-CBN’s brightest stars, Kim Chiu was a simple Cebuana with big dreams. Her charm, talent, and resilience earned her the title of PBB Teen Edition's first Big Winner. Now a household name, Kim continues to thrive as an actress, host, and performer, gracing shows like "It's Showtime" and "ASAP".
Bea Saw – PBB Season 2 (2007)
Known as "Mommy Bea" for her nurturing personality, Bea Saw proved that kindness and diplomacy can triumph in a house filled with tension. Her unforgettable confrontation with fellow housemate Maricris Dizon became one of the most iconic moments in PBB history. After PBB, Bea pursued acting and hosting before settling down as a full-time wife and mother.
Ruben Gonzaga – PBB Celebrity Edition 2 (2008)
A proud Dabawenyo, Ruben Gonzaga became the first male PBB Big Winner. His humor and heartfelt stories resonated with viewers, propelling him to victory. He went on to star in TV shows like "May Bukas Pa" and "Halik", while continuing to entertain audiences in Davao. He also hosted the defunct livelihood program show, “Agri Tayo Dito.”
Ejay Falcon – PBB Teen Edition Plus (2008)
The "Promdi Hottie ng Mindoro" turned his PBB victory into a successful acting career, starring in hit shows like "FPJ’s Batang Quiapo". Recently, Ejay made headlines as the Vice Governor of Oriental Mindoro while continuing to serve in the Philippine Air Force Reserve.
Melai Cantiveros – PBB Double Up (2009)
With her infectious humor and unpretentious personality, Melai Cantiveros quickly became a fan favorite. Her journey from "Inday Kengkay ng General Santos City" to Big Winner marked the start of a flourishing showbiz career. Now a celebrated TV host, comedian, and actress, Melai remains a beloved figure in Philippine entertainment.
James Reid – PBB Teen Clash of 2010
Despite facing health challenges inside the house, James Reid emerged as the Big Winner with his undeniable charisma. He went on to become a successful actor, singer, and entrepreneur, founding the independent music label Careless. James continues to break barriers in the entertainment industry, both locally and internationally. He was also paired to Nadine Lustre, where their love team, dubbed as JaDine, became popular. They eventually became a real life couple before splitting in 2020.
Slater Young – PBB Unlimited (2012)
The "Hotshot Engineer of Cebu" proved that brains and charisma could take you far. After his PBB stint, Slater Young transitioned into a successful entrepreneur and content creator, inspiring many with his vlogs on construction and home design. He is now a devoted husband and father of three.
Myrtle Sarrosa – PBB Teen Edition 4 (2012)
A standout cosplayer from Iloilo, Myrtle Sarrosa charmed audiences with her vibrant costumes and sweet personality. After winning PBB, she pursued a career in acting, hosting, and music while earning a Cum Laude degree from the University of the Philippines. She is currently active in cosplaying, while still pursuing acting with GMA.
Daniel Matsunaga – PBB All In (2014)
The Brazilian-Japanese heartthrob won over Filipinos with his kindness and work ethic. Despite initial controversy over his foreign roots, Daniel Matsunaga proved his Filipino heart through his dedication to every task inside the house. He remains active in modeling, acting, and fitness advocacy.
Jimboy Martin — PBB 737 - Teens (2015)
The “Barrio Rapper of Nueva Vizcaya” might be an introvert, but Jimboy Martin left everyone in awe with his rapping prowess during PBB 737. His humble beginnings in the province shaped his maturity, compassion, and sense of responsibility — qualities that made him a standout winner.
After his stint in the PBB house, Jimboy made his acting debut in the 2016 drama Born For You and became part of It’s Showtime's boy group, Hashtags.
Miho Nishida — PBB 737 - Adults (2015)
Despite the language barrier she faced as a Filipina raised in Japan, Miho Nishida won the hearts of viewers with her determination, charm, and hilarious antics. Her romantic connection with fellow housemate Tommy Esguerra added excitement to the show, making them one of the most talked-about pairs.
After PBB, Miho pursued acting, singing, and performing. She became a member of the girl group GirlTrends and starred in several TV series before settling back in Japan with her mother and daughter, Aimi.
Maymay Entrata — PBB Lucky Season 7 (2017)
The “Wacky-Go-Lucky of Cagayan de Oro” brought endless laughter and positivity inside the PBB house. Maymay’s charm and relatability as a fangirl made her an instant crowd favorite, eventually becoming the Big Winner of her season.
Post-PBB, she soared to stardom — starring in movies and teleseryes, releasing hit songs like AMAKABOGERA, modeling on international runways, and gracing the stage as a mainstay of ASAP.
Yamyam Gucong — PBB Otso (2019)
Yamyam Gucong’s journey from a humble life in Bohol to becoming the PBB Otso Ultim8 Big Winner is nothing short of inspiring. His authenticity, perseverance, and comedic charm made him a consistent fan favorite. His unforgettable friendship with Fumiya Sankai, known as "FumiYam," also captured viewers' hearts.
After PBB, Yamyam starred in several TV shows, including Maalaala Mo Kaya, and ventured into business by opening his own bakeshop in Bohol. He is now engaged to his partner Elaine Toradio, with whom he shares a daughter.
Liofer Pinatacan — PBB Connect (2021)
Making history as the first Big Winner during the pandemic, Liofer Pinatacan proved that determination and strategy could lead to victory. The “Dong Diskarte ng Zamboanga del Sur” won the virtual Big Night of PBB Connect in 2021.
While he remains out of the limelight, Liofer seems to be enjoying life through travel adventures, as seen on his social media posts.
Anji Salvacion — PBB Kumunity Season 10 (2022)
Despite facing multiple eviction votes, Anji Salvacion rose to the top as the PBB Kumunity Season 10 Big Winner. The Filipina-Russian beauty showcased not only her resilience but also her singing, dancing, and hosting talents.
Anji has since pursued a thriving career in entertainment — releasing original songs, hosting Idol Philippines Season 2, and starring in the controversial series Linlang.
Fyang Smith — Gen11 (2024)
Sofia "Fyang" Smith is dubbed the "PBB Baby" — born in May 2006, just weeks after the first PBB Teen Edition crowned Kim Chiu as its Big Winner. The 18-year-old online sensation made history as the Big Winner with the most nomination points in PBB history — earning 56 points and surpassing Anji Salvacion's record of 25.
Before entering the famous yellow house, Fyang was already making waves on social media with her beauty and lifestyle content, captivating audiences with her bold personality. Throughout her PBB journey, her fierce authenticity became both her strength and weakness — drawing criticism from fellow housemates and viewers alike. Despite the controversies, it was her unapologetic honesty and staying true to herself that ultimately led her to emerge as the Big Winner. RGL