Bianca Gonzalez had seen Maris Racal evolve from a timid “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate, to an acclaimed actress that she is today.

In her podcast show, “Paano Ba ‘To?,” Gonzalez noted Racal’s impeccable transformation as a singer and an actress, noticing great improvement on Racal whether as a singer or as an actress.

Overwhelmed by Racal’s success both in television and the movies, Gonzalez immediately posted a heartfelt message about Maris on Instagram.

“She really is Sunshine, mula noon hanggang ngayon,” Gonzalez initially wrote.

For the “Pinoy Big Brother” host, Racal was both vulnerable and confident when she first saw her perform.

“She was quite shy and her eyes would disappear whenever she’d smile, but when she held her guitar to sing a few lines, she revealed both vulnerability and confidence at the same time, plus an ex factor that eventually, viewers saw as well,” Gonzalez noted.

She witnessed Racal grow not only as a singer and actress but as a woman, too.

“It has been a joy to watch her grow and shine these past 11 years, not just as an actress and artist, but as a woman. And watching her on the big screen as Sunshine made me so, so proud. From Irene Tiu to Gab Rivera and now Sunshine... what can this girl not do?! It will come as no surprise if Maris wins major acting awards for this film. Napakahusay! Napakatapang,” she wrote.

How PBB changed Esnyr Ranollo’s life

Social media sensation Esnyr Ranollo admitted that his life has drastically changed after leaving the “Pinoy Big Brother” House.

“Sobrang bibago niya talaga, 360, ganoon ang pagbago ng buhay namin,” Ranollo quipped during the Star Magic Spotlight mediacon for the four Big Winners of PBB Celebrity Collab Edition.

“Nag-open ‘yung mga doors for me at para sa pamilya ko. Noong pumasok ako dito, parang wala pa akong masyadong strength. Paglabas ko, masasabi kong strong na ako. Napagdaanan na namin ang iba’t ibang hamon sa buhay kaya marunong na akong tumanggap ng criticism. (Doors opened for me and for my family. When I entered here, it’s like I don’t have much strength.  When I got out, I can say that I’m already strong. We went through the many challenges in life which is why I know now how to accept criticism),” he added.

Ranollo and his partner Charlie Fleming were proclaimed Third Big Placer Duo.

‘It’s Showtime’ segment redefines modern matchmaking

Josie, a 56-year-old woman, stood on stage with a hopeful smile. She opened up about how her late mother’s strictness once forced her to end a relationship, a decision that left a pain in her heart. Now, with the support of her best friend and the encouragement of the studio audience, she was finally ready to try again.

In a surprising twist, host Vice Ganda allowed Josie to go on dates with not one, but all three of the “hakbangers” — Mike, Emilio and Ding — fellow seniors with their own stories of loss and longing. The moment turned even more heartfelt when Vice pledged to sponsor the date for Josie and her eventual choice, honoring the years she had spent caring for others with a rare chance to choose happiness for herself.

This happened in “Step in the Name of Love,” a segment in It’s Showtime that is growing in popularity for showcasing  a diverse lineup of participants, from young adults to senior citizens, and proves that love knows no age.

At its core, “Step In the Name of Love” revolves around a searcher, accompanied by a best friend, who helps present their ideal qualities to a trio of potential matches called “hakbangers.” The twist? All decisions are made on a literal staircase, where “hakbangers” move up or down based on attraction, chemistry, or gut feel.

But what makes “Step In the Name of Love” a cut above the typical dating show is its commitment to inclusivity. The segment allows people of all ages to find love, companionship, or friendship. For many participants who may have never had the chance to find someone special or who have lost a loved one, the show offers a unique opportunity to experience romance, even just for a moment.