On a heartfelt episode of Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition, tensions and emotions ran high as Ralph De Leon apologized to his close friend AZ Martinez after nominating her and her duo, River Joseph, during the show’s first-ever face-to-face nomination round.
Ralph, clearly affected by his decision, expressed regret over giving AZ and River a point, citing AZ’s emotional state as a factor. “I know you trusted me with your thoughts and worries, and I’m sorry. That’s what we used as a reason for the points,” he told her. “I understand if you feel betrayed.”
AZ responded with grace, saying she understood his reasoning but admitted the betrayal still hurt. “I can’t lie, it was painful. I really thought you were the one who understood me,” she said.
Despite the pain, AZ acknowledged her own faults and vowed to stay strong—not for herself, but for her duo partner. “I’m fighting this for River. I’m the reason we got nominated. She doesn’t deserve this,” AZ added, showing her commitment and sense of accountability.
The two friends reconciled with a signature handshake and words of encouragement. Ralph reminded her to keep fighting, and AZ reassured him she won’t give up.
Ralph had earlier broken down in tears after the nomination, overwhelmed by guilt. AZ and River’s duo, “AzVer,” now face eviction alongside other nominated pairs DusBi (Dustin and Bianca) and ShuKla (Shuvee and Klarisse).
Catch Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition weeknights at 10:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 6:15 p.m. on GMA Network.