As Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10 nears its opening, former housemates Karina Bautista and Aljon Mendoza couldn’t help but reminisce their PBB days and feel excited for the new batch of housemates.
Speculations spread on social media when the famous yellow house was seen covered with a tarpaulin that reads: “A new community will rise soon.” People assumed it would be demolished. But knowing Big Brother, Karina was sure it was just a warm-up for more exciting news.
Aljon, on the other hand, was reminded of their experiences and he’s excited for the aspiring housemates. He wishes the new housemates would enjoy their journey as much as they did.
Aljon has always been fascinated about being an ‘artista’ especially when he reached high school. There was a photo of him posing outside the PBB house with the caption “someday.” He said he came from the province at that time and it was his first time to pass by the PBB house. “Papasok ako dito kahit anong mangyari,” he thought to himself. So when he heard about the auditions, Aljon travelled from Pampanga to Cubao to try his luck.
Karina never dreamt of becoming an actress, although her mom was pushing her to try showbiz. She was focused on her schooling and sports, influenced by her dad. Sometimes she’d take on modelling gigs. This changed when an events coordinator informed her of the PBB auditions.
Half-hearted, Karina arrived solo and late at the venue. She even stepped out of the line to attend her debate competition and she was luckily allowed to still continue. She wasn’t as eager and serious as the other aspirants. So when she got in, Karina knew it was really meant for her. “Hindi ko pa man hinihingi, binigay na. Napaka-perfect ng timing ng pagpasok ko,” she said.
KarJon went on to talk about their top memories in the teen edition of PBB Otso. Aljon recalled the time when he was still in hotel arrest, told that he still has to go through challenges to become an official housemate. And he won, besting the other three hopefuls. He said it felt surreal stepping inside the house for the time. He couldn’t believe he made it.
One of his favorite activities was the impersonation wherein Nyoy Volante dropped by to mentor the housemates. He was tasked to impersonate Yoyoy Villame, complete with prosthetics. Aljon was so eager to slay the challenge that he was even caught dancing in his sleep.
Getting evicted is also an unforgettable experience for him. When his journey as a PBB housemate ended, Aljon was thankful and looking forward to the next chapters bringing all the experiences and lessons he learned.
Karina likewise recalled her challenges before becoming an official housemate. During the judges’ voting, she received a ‘yes’ from PBB Big Winner Keanna Reeves, now her co-star in “Hoy Love You.”
Also part of her best PBB memories is when she secured a spot in their batch’s Big Four. Karina said every eviction night was full of suspense, thanks to Toni Gonzaga’s superb hosting skills. She also recalled the task with Seth Fedelin and Rhys Miguel that assured eviction for one of them. Karina thought she would not let being a woman stop her from winning the task.
Her third unforgettable event happened in the confession room where Kuya told her she’d make it big and that he will continue to support her journey. For Karina, the best lessons from Kuya are those that come with challenges. It taught her that success is not instant. You have to work hard and take risks if you want to achieve something. She also appreciates Kuya’s tasks that strengthen friendships and reveal their hearts.
Aljon added that Big Brother taught him to always be prepared because life can be full of surprises and that giving up is never an option. “Minsan lang ang buhay. Ito ang pangarap natin, gawin natin ‘to at sigurado magtatagumpay tayo.”
KarJon urges other hopefuls to grab the opportunity now that auditions for the popular reality show
are easier online unlike their experience where they had to line up for long hours. If they get in, embrace the gift of friendship and enjoy the tasks. Karina added they only need to be real. There’s no need to pretend and impress anyone. After all, the best way to enjoy the journey is to not be conscious with the cameras inside the Big Brother house.
The worldwide search for the next batch of housemates for “Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10” has officially started on the Pinoy community platform, Kumu.
Once again, thousands of aspiring housemates are expected to try their luck as they aim to fulfill their dream and change the lives of their family and community.
Planning to give “PBB” a shot? If you are 20 to 40 years old, you can audition for this season’s adult edition from September 1 until September 30. Audition for the Teen Edition (15 to 19 years old), meanwhile will be from December 1 to 31.