AZ and River’s bond shines beyond the big night

AZ Martinez and River Joseph — known to fans as AZVer — faith, friendship, and fierce determination brought them all the way to the finish line.

Now officially crowned as the Fourth Big Placers of the historic collab season, AZ and River are stepping out of the Big Brother house not just as housemates, but as spiritual anchors for one another—and, arguably, the most emotionally resonant duo of the season.

“I’d pick him again and again.”

Appearing on Unang Hirit just days after the Big Night, AZ glowed with sincerity as she recreated the now-iconic Big Jump Challenge with River, balancing boxes between their bodies while fielding rapid-fire questions from the hosts.

Asked if she would still choose River if she were given the first pick all over again, AZ didn’t hesitate.

“For me, lalong-lalo na na-experience ko having River as my duo, I’d still pick him again and again and again.”

It was a heartwarming affirmation of her original decision—one that took place during the tense final duo formation, where AZ had to choose between River and Esnyr. In a moment watched by millions, she followed her instinct and picked River, calling him “a hero and a light” inside the house. River, for his part, accepted with a humble smile and unwavering presence.

What set AZVer apart from the rest wasn’t just their synergy in tasks or their calm under pressure — it was their deeply rooted faith. Throughout the season, they were often seen clasping hands in silent prayer before challenges, a ritual that sparked the nickname “The Prayerful Duo” from fans online.

“Naniniwala ako na surrender everything to God and He has plans for us,” AZ shared. “If it’s meant for us, it’s for us.”

“Always do everything through faith and by faith only.”

River echoed the same spiritual grounding:

“When you feel like giving up, when you’re overthinking and anxious — prayer is the best thing to do.”

During their toughest moments in the Big Jump Challenge — one of the most physically and mentally taxing competitions of the season — AZ and River paused, prayed, and pushed forward. That moment of surrender turned into strength, carrying them into the coveted Big 4.

While Brent Manalo and Mika Salamanca (BreKa) ultimately clinched the Big Winner title, and RaWi (Will Ashley and Ralph De Leon) and ChaRes (Charlie Fleming and Esnyr) landed the second and third spots, AZVer left a legacy not measured in votes alone.

Their journey became a quiet revolution within the house—proof that stillness, faith, and a steadfast heart could win battles just as powerfully as noise or numbers.

As they step into life outside the house, AZ and River leave behind a prayer whispered not just between themselves, but into the hearts of the audience: Do not lean on your own understanding. Trust in a greater plan. Always choose kindness—and do everything by faith.