10 years after failed audition, Mika Salamanca reflects on successful ‘Pinoy Big Brother’ journey

Actress and content creator Mika Salamanca recently achieved a significant milestone, being named a Big Winner in the latest season of Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition. She shares this honor with her duo partner, actor and model Brent Manalo.

Reflecting on this achievement in an Instagram post on Sunday, July 6, Mika revealed that becoming a housemate was a long-held dream. She shared a surprising detail: her first attempt to join the reality show a decade ago was unsuccessful.

Looking back, Mika mused, "Ten years ago, I was not fortunate enough to enter PBB, perhaps because I was not ready yet. I’m a firm believer that when plans don’t go your way, it’s because God has a bigger one, and this is it!" This perspective highlights her belief in timing and destiny.

Mika also expressed profound gratitude for the chance the show gave her. She felt it allowed her to address past issues and, crucially, to present her authentic self to the public. She stated, "I still can’t understand what I did right inside Kuya’s House to become a 'Big Winner' because all I did was follow the advice of my loved ones—to just be myself. Thank you for letting me reintroduce myself."

It's worth noting that Mika faced considerable public scrutiny following her 2020 arrest in Hawaii for violating quarantine rules. Despite her public apology acknowledging the mistake, the incident continued to impact her public image.

In her heartfelt post, she extended her thanks to the audience whose support carried the housemates, declaring them the "true Big Winners." She wrote, "Words are not enough to explain how overwhelmed I am by everyone who welcomed us with love. Thank you so much! Every day, I will look for ways to give back the love we are receiving. You are the true Big Winners!"

Mika also gave a special shoutout to fellow housemates Shuvee Etrata, Klarisse de Guzman, Bianca de Vera, and Dustin Yu, recognizing them as her closest companions during her stay inside the PBB house.

Addressing her co-Big Winner, Brent Manalo, Mika shared a touching message about their partnership. She emphasized the strength of their bond and how he made the journey easier by helping her navigate her emotions, stating, "You never made me feel that my baggage was too heavy because you were always ready to shoulder it. And even though we’re already in the outside world, nothing will change. I got you. You got me."

Mika's reflective post was met with an outpouring of congratulatory messages and affirmations from her family, friends, and fanbase. Fellow PBB alumni, including Brent Manalo, Esnyr Ranollo, Xyriel Manabat, AC Bonifacio, Michael Sager, Ralph de Leon, and Will Ashley, also shared supportive responses.