Tensions ran high in the ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition’ house following the show’s first-ever face-to-face nomination, as Ralph De Leon finally confronted his close friend AZ Martinez after voting to nominate her and her partner River Joseph.
In Wednesday night’s episode, Ralph took the brave step to apologize to AZ for the point he and his duo, Will Ashley, gave her and River during Monday’s nomination.
“I just wanna say sorry, first of all, kasi I know you trusted me. ‘Yung mga kwento mo, mga rants mo about what you were thinking about, what you were worrying about. I just want to apologize. That’s the reason we used kanina to give you guys the points,” Ralph told AZ, acknowledging the betrayal she might feel. “I completely understand if you feel betrayed, if you feel that you can’t trust me anymore.”
AZ, while visibly hurt, assured Ralph that she understood the reasoning behind their decision. “Totoo naman din ‘yung mga sinabi mo,” she said.
However, she didn’t hide the emotional toll it took. “I can’t lie. It was too painful. I really thought that you were the one who really understood me as part na ‘yan. And I did not expect na you will use it against me. We talked about it eh. Ang sakit,” AZ said, fighting back tears.
Despite the pain, AZ showed maturity and accountability, expressing that she’s staying strong for River. “I’m fighting this for [River]. Ako ‘yung reason bakit nominated siya. River doesn’t deserve this,” she said.
As the two began to mend their friendship, they sealed the moment with their signature handshake. Ralph encouraged her not to give up: “Say you’re not giving up this week.”
“I won’t give up this week,” AZ replied. “It’s OK. Don’t worry about it. I’m just happy that you and [Will] are safe.”
Ralph and Will previously cited AZ’s emotional behavior as the reason behind their nomination. Shortly after, Ralph broke down in the confession room, expressing guilt over voting against someone he cared deeply for.
This week’s nominees include DusBi (Dustin and Bianca), AzVer (AZ and River), and ShuKla (Shuvee and Klarisse). ‘Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition’ airs weeknights at 10:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 6:15 p.m. on GMA Network.