MANILA, Philippines – Social media personality-turned-Sparkle artist Mika Salamanca, dubbed as the “Controversial Ca-babe-len of Pampanga,” never imagined that a simple dream would be the key to achieving one of the biggest milestones in her life—being crowned the Big Winner of the first ever and historic Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.
In an emotional Facebook post following her victory with Kapamilya housemate duo Brent Manalo, Mika shared her disbelief at making it to the end of the competition:
“Pumasok ako ng PBB na may dalang konting damit at pangarap lang, kaya hindi ko inexpect na aabot ako sa dulo,” she said.
“'Cause wdym umabot talaga TAYO sa dulo?! NO WAYYYYY, legit?”
READ: Brent Manalo, Mika Salamanca are Big Winners of PBB Collab
After failing to enter Kuya’s House ten years ago, Mika believed that God had a bigger plan for her.
"10 years ago di ako pinalad na makapasok sa PBB, siguro dahil hindi pa ko ready. I’m a firm believer that when plans don’t go your way, it’s because God has a bigger one, at ito yun!," she said.
Now, at the right time and opportunity, her long-held dream has finally come true.
“Hanggang ngayon po hindi ko pa rin po maintindihan kung ano ang ginawa kong tama... dahil ang ginawa ko lang naman po ay ang bilin ng mga mahal ko sa buhay—ang maging ako,” she said.
She expressed deep gratitude to those who supported her both inside and outside the house. She didn’t forget to thank those who stood by her throughout the PBB journey, including ShuKla (Shuvee Etrata and Klarisse de Guzman) and DusBi (Dustin Yu and Bianca de Vera), whom they brought to the finals, and Caca, who served as her confidante and adviser during challenges.
She specifically thanked Brent, her partner inside the house, who became her emotional anchor throughout the competition:
“From your manifestation sa first duo formation to being the final duo to being the first duo big winner! You really made this journey easier by carrying my emotions with me.”
She also extended her thanks to the people behind PBB Collab Edition, including ABS-CBN, GMA Network, Sparkle, and the individuals who helped make this season a success.
At the end of her post, Mika reintroduced herself to the public—not just as a housemate, but as someone who triumphed by staying true to herself and showing love to others:
“Ako po si Mika, ANG CONTROVERSIAL CA-BABE-LEN NG PAMPANGA.”
Pumasok ako ng PBB na may dalang konting damit at pangarap lang, kaya hindi ko inexpect na aabot ako sa dulo, ‘cause...
Posted by Mika Salamanca on Sunday, July 6, 2025
Before her stint on PBB, Mika was controversial for allegedly violating COVID-19 quarantine protocols in Hawaii in 2020, which led to her brief arrest and widespread criticism. She was seen going out in public before completing the required 14-day quarantine, sparking backlash for being irresponsible despite her large online following.
Her initial defensive response further fueled public outrage. Mika was also occasionally criticized for posting insensitive content and getting involved in online drama, which added to her polarizing reputation.
Not to mention her recent break-up and alleged involvement in an investment scheme, which she clarified that she was not involved on that matter.
Mika stands as proof that true victory isn’t just measured by a trophy, but by kindness, authenticity, and the unwavering support of those who believe in you.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express