MANILA — Mika Salamanca, fresh off her win in Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab, shared that she never imagined reaching the show’s finale — much less winning — after entering the house with just a few clothes and a dream.
In an emotional Instagram post on July 5, the actress and content creator revealed she had low expectations going into PBB, believing she might be evicted early. “I brought so few clothes because I didn’t think I’d last long. But here we are… we made it to the end,” she wrote, still in awe of her journey.
Mika and her duo partner Brent Manalo — together known as BreKa — were crowned the Big Winners during the grand finale held Saturday, July 5.
The win was especially sweet for Salamanca, who said she had auditioned for PBB 10 years ago but didn’t make the cut. “I wasn’t ready back then. But I believe when things don’t go your way, it’s because God has something better in store.”
She credits her success to staying true to herself and expressed deep gratitude to her fellow housemates, fans, and the PBB community. “Thank you for letting me reintroduce myself. The real big winners are all of you who gave us love.”
Mika also had a heartfelt message for Brent, calling him her emotional anchor throughout the show. “You carried my emotions, made the weight lighter, and never made me feel like a burden. Outside the house, nothing changes. I got you. You got me.”
Fellow celebrities and housemates flooded her post with congratulations, including Ranollo, Ashley, Bianca de Vera, Benedict Cua, Xyriel Manabat, Bella Racelis, Jaz of G22, and Samantha Bernardo.
As for Brent, he has yet to share a full reaction but posted a sweet photo with his dog on Instagram Stories.
BreKa emerged victorious over three other strong duos: RaWi (Ralph de Leon and Will Ashley), CharEs (Charlie Fleming and Esnyr Ranollo), and AZver (AZ Martinez and River Joseph), who finished second through fourth.