Survivor Philippines Season 2 auditions

GMA 7’s Survivor Philippines is set to kick off auditions for Season Two.

Auditions are open to all individuals 18 years old and above, physically and mentally fit, and can survive in unfamiliar terrain for 39 days.

Applicants are encouraged to show off their distinct survivor personality that will give them the chance to bag the title Sole Survivor.

The first wave of auditions will kick off at the CSI, the City Mall Lucao in Dagupan on Feb. 26 and 27. Baguio will be the second stop at SM City Baguio on March 3 and 4. Next is at LCC Mall in Naga on March 9 and 10.

There will be auditions on March 12 and 13 at SM Iloilo; March 15 and 16, SM City Cebu; March 18 and 19, SM Davao; March 23 and 24, SM Lipa, Batangas; March 27 and 28, SM North EDSA; and March 29 and 30, SM Mall of Asia.

Survivor castaway Kiko Rustia replaces Romy Garduce in Born To Be Wild

Nang unang ma-interview ang isa sa mga castaway ng Survivor Philippines Season 1 na si Kiko Rustia, 32 pa lang ang lahat ng bracelets niya. Nang sumunod na makausap namin siya ay 38 na ang bracelets nito in different colors and made of different materials.

Hindi inaalis ni Kiko ang kanyang mga bracelet kahit naliligo siya. Patunay nito ang maputing bahagi ng kanyang braso na natatakpan ng mga bracelet na dahil sa bigat ay lumaki ang mga braso niya. After his U.S. trip, balak ni Kiko na maglabas ng sariling bracelet line sa tulong ng Tahanang Walang Hagdan. May kausap na raw siya tungkol dito at papangalanan niya ang itatayong bracelet line na Kiko's Burloloy.

Aalis si Kiko sa February 22, para dumalo sa three international food conventions na gagawin sa Las Vegas at San Francisco. Hanggang March 14 siya roon. May kinalaman sa bubuksang 55 Events Place, kung saan kasosyo siya, ang pagdalo ng dating Survivor castaway sa food convention.

"Sometime in March ang target naming opening," banggit ni Kiko. "It's a big place with two main function rooms. Puwedeng resto at lahat ng klaseng events, from weddings to birthdays. May catering din kami at yun ang pag-aaralan namin sa convention.

"Graduate ako ng Culinary Arts sa Center for Culinary Arts. Ang kasosyo ko is my best friend, who graduated from California Culinary Arts. Dati nagluluto ako at ang specialty ko ay fusion dahil mahilig akong mag-mix and match. Pero ngayon, hindi ko na magawa," kuwento pa niya.

Industrial partner din si Kiko ng Half Moon Coffee at I Have Two Eggs restos na magka-back-to-back sa  Tomas Morato Ave. extension.

BORN TO BE WILD. Pero bago umalis papuntang U.S., nag-taping muna si Kiko sa Cagayan Valley ng pilot episode niya sa Born To Be Wild, kung saan magiging regular co-host na siya ni Doc Ferds Recio. Nag-resign na kasi mula sa show ang mountaineer na si Romy Garduce.

Bago maging regular co-host si Kiko ng Born To Be Wild ay nag-guest na si Kiko rito kaya hindi na siya maninibago.

Anong pressure ang dala nang pagiging regular niya sa Born To Be Wild at bilang kapalit ni Romy?

"Malaking pressure dahil si Romy ay may very in-depth knowledge at matagal na siya sa show. Ako, ngayon lang magiging permanent co-host. Hindi ko nga alam kung bakit ako ang napili, hindi sinabi sa akin.ig Suro dahil for my passion for outdoors at adventurous ako. Nakita rin nilang wala akong arte at kung kinailangang lumusong sa putik, ginawa ko."

"Mag-iiba na rin ang format ng Born To Be Wild, magiging extreme siya at matitindi ang gagawin namin. Magiging palaban siya at willing akong gawin ang lahat. Hindi ko sasayangin ang opportunity na ibinigay sa akin ng GMA-7," pangako ni Kiko.

Hindi rin daw tatanggihan ni Kiko kung may acting offer na dumating, pero gusto niya action o kaya ay comedy dahil komikero raw siya.

"Nabalitang kasama raw ako sa Totoy Bato, pero hindi totoo yun. It would have been an honor to work with the likes of Robin Padilla, Manny Pacquiao, and Eddie Garcia. Kapag katrabaho mo si Robin, dapat umayos ka. Great experience sana yun kung totoo," may panghihinayang na sabi ni Kiko.

GOOD EDUCATION. Hindi itinatanggi ni Kiko na may kaya ang kanilang pamilya, pero lahat daw ng meron sila ay pinagtrabahuan ng kanyang mga magulang. Naghirap daw ang parents niya to send them to good schools. Gaya ni Kiko na graduate sa La Salle, sa College of St. Benilde naman graduate ang brother niya; samantalang ang dalawang kapatid niyang babae ay sa University of Asia & the Pacific pumapasok; at ang youngest nila ay sa Poveda.

"My family believes in investing in good education, kaya sa magagandang eskuwelahan kami ipinasok. Nakikita ko kung paano nagsisikap ang parents ko, kaya now than I'm earning, tumutulong ako sa family expenses. My dream is to treat my family abroad," wika ni Kiko.

Hahabol pa si Kiko sa ibang audition dates ng Season 2 ng Survivor Philippines. Sasama raw siya sa audition para tumulong sa paghahanap ng castaway na babagay sa reality show at may kasing-tinding impact, gaya ng mga naunang casaways, na makakaganda sa reality show.

 

- PEP

Survivor Philippines opens auditions for second season

After a phenomenal first season, Survivor Philippines (SP) is set to unfurl its second season.

Everyone thought nothing could top the mind-boggling challenges, in your-face drama, and strength-zapping activities of season 1 but Survivor Philippines Season 2 aims to raise the bar for reality TV once more.

Survivor Philippines is set to re-affirm its status as the mother of all reality shows as it trumpets the start of its callouts to all free-spirited individuals, Survivor fanatics, thrill-seekers and adventure enthusiasts from all walks of life to take part in the nationwide auditions for Season 2.

Auditions are open to all individuals 18 years old and above, physically and mentally fit, and can last in unfamiliar terrain for 39 days.

Applicants are encouraged to show off their distinct survivor personality that will hopefully give them the opportunity to bag the much-coveted title of being the Sole Survivor.

The first wave of auditions is set to kick off at the CSI, the City Mall Lucao in Dagupan on February 26 and 27.

The country’s summer capital will be the second stop as the auditions unfold at SM City Baguio on March 3 and 4. Next stop will be in LCC Mall in Naga on March 9 and 10.

Down south, the auditions will start in Iloilo on March 12 to 13 at SM Iloilo. The Queen City of the South is next on March 15 and 16 at SM City Cebu. And finally, SM Davao on March 18 to 19.

Back in Luzon, SP Season 2 auditions will be held at SM Lipa in Batangas on March 23 to 24, SM North EDSA in Manila on March 27 to 28 and SM Mall of Asia on March 29 to 30.

Mark the dates and get ready to take on the challenge that is Survivor Philippines Season 2.

First Pinoy Sole Survivor JC Tiuseco leaves basketball behind; pursues showbiz career

When JC Tiuseco joined the first Survivor Philippines, one of his intentions was to use the reality program as a stepping stone to show business.

"At the back of my mind, siyempre, nandoon na 'yon," said JC in a recent interview with PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal).  Lahat naman kami na sumali sa Survivor, gusto rin naming talaga na makapasok eventually sa showbiz.  Sabi nga ni Patani, 'Exposure.'  Nandoon na talaga na, ' Kailangan ko 'to.  Exposure ito sa akin if I wanna enter showbiz.'  Pero siyempre kailangan mong laruin 'yong game.  Alam mo na kaya ka nagpunta doon dahil hindi lang sa exposure, e, gusto mong manalo ka, gusto mong ikaw ang maging First Sole Survivor."

Being a celebrity was what JC thought as the next step after his modeling stint.  He explained, "After modeling kasi, noong nagmo-model ako, parang iniisip ko, 'What's next after modeling?  Ano na ang gagawin ko?' Hindi naman puwedeng lagi na lang akong modeling diyan.  Paano kung na-lock out na ako sa mga product na nakuha for endorsements.  So, what's next?  Ito na 'yong next level na naisip ko, e, ang showbiz."

What about his basketball career?  It can be remembered that he was first known as a hardcourt heartthrob while he was still playing for the San Sebastian Recoletos Golden Stags.

"Ang basketball ko is more of a hobby na lang.   Pero I'm still playing for a commercial league team o kaya sa Chinese league team," answered JC.

STARTING WITH HOSTING JOB.  After he was declared the first Pinoy Sole Survivor, JC immediately got a hosting-job offer from GMA-7's morning show Unang Hirit.  This was actually another first for the 23-year-old former varsity player.

When asked about his experience so far, JC laughed while narrating his first day in Unang Hirit.  He said, "'Yong Unang Hirit, noong una, sobrang stiff ko, kasi hindi naman ako host.  First hosting job ko at ang stiff-stiff ko.  Hindi ko alam kung paano makikipag-usap sa co-host ko."

He then told PEP that he was not really expecting to be a television host.  The Unang Hirit segment host said,   "Hindi ko aakalain na magiging ganito ang job ko, hindi naman kasi ako madaldal."

During his short hosting job, however, many already noticed  improvement in his newfound job, JC said.

He excitedly related to PEP, "Ngayon, natutuwa lang ako kasi one week or six days pa lang ako nagwo-work for Unang Hirit, pero nakita ko naman ang improvement ko sa sarili ko.  Marami ring tao na nagsasabi sa akin na, 'Uy, ang laki na ng in-improve mo.'  Comfy na ako sa mga kasama ko at nakakabato na ako ng mga lines ko nang mas okay.  Pero siyempre, there's always room for improvement, marami pa akong matututunan."

HOPING TO BECOME AN ACTOR.  JC is also serious about fulfilling his dream to become a dramatic actor. In fact, he is currently taking workshops in acting and hosting to sharpen his skills.

"Aside from hosting, na binigyan na ako ng break ng GMA-7, gusto ko talagang mag-drama or action.  Kasi, 'yong action, sa [Koh Tarutao] island pa lang, ang dami nang action.  'Yong mga talun-talon naming doon, hindi naman calculated stunts 'yon.

Drama, kasi parang masaya 'yong makikita nila ako sa labas na hindi naman ako umiiyak except sa Survivor, nakita nila akong umiiyak. Feeling ko, kakayanin ko 'yong drama basta mabigyan lang ako ng experience or break, ganun."

If given the chance, JC wants to work with several Kapuso actresses.  "Siyempre, gusto kong maka-partner 'yong magagaling na artista, like sila Rhian [Ramos], Iza Calzado, Sunshine Dizon.  Kasi nandoon na sila, e, parang kung sila man ang makaka-partner ko o makakasama ko sa soap, marami na akong matututunan from them."

He recalled his first acting experience with young actress Jennica Garcia in the weekly drama Maynila.

JC narrated, "Si Jennica Garcia, naka-work ko na sa Maynila, partner ko siya doon.  So, nakita ko naman na talaga supportive siya kasi alam niya na first acting job ko 'yon.  Parang tinuturuan niya ako at kapag nagkakamali ako, sinasabi niya, 'Okay lang 'yan.  First time mo, alam kong kinakabahan ka.  Hindi mo pa mailalabas ang pag-arte mo dito.'"

Although he admitted that he's not yet a good actor, JC remained positive that he would get his chance to show off what he got this year.

"This year, sana makasama ako sa isang soap, magkaroon ako ng acting job.  Positive naman ako diyan sa acting job ko this year.  Feeling ko naman magkakaroon naman, so, sana bigyan ako ng project ng GMA-7," he ended hopefully.

Survivor Philippines:’ Castaways down to 3

Who would be the first Pinoy sole “Survivor"? Anna Charisse Yacapin? John Carlo “JC" Tuiseco? Robert Vincent “Rob" Sy?

This after the Tribal Council booted out Friday company driver Crisanto “Cris" Cartegenas in the elimination round.

Cris received three votes, and JC got one vote, courtesy of Cris who considered JC the most competitive among the remaining castaways.

JC earlier won the immunity challenge. He opted to choose the brand new car as a reward instead of the “necklace" that would save him from elimination.

JC gave the necklace to Rob.

During the open forum of the tribal council, Cris took a dig at Rob who he described as so dependent on JC on the island.

However, Rob explained that he managed to survive the game because of that strategy. He added that JC is kind and helpful and trusted him.

In his exit interview, Cris said: “Sa mga bagay- bagay na nakita nyo yun talaga ang pinagbasehan ko para tumagal sa game… kung ano man ang nakita nyo sa akin ipagpaumanhin n’yo sa akin…pasalamat pa rin ako sa Taas na nakasali pa rin ako rito."

Survivor host Paolo Bediones said the winner in the next reward challenge will be given the right to pick a contender in the final two.

Episode 60: And the Last 3 Standing Are: Rob, Charisse and JC

JC, Charisse and Rob are the final 3 as Cris "gracefully" exits.

Cris was shocked that the reward for that particular IC was a car. Rob admits that JC is more deserving and more "pursigido" to win the challenge. Charisse, on the other hand thought she would miraculously win the challenge after being able to keep up with the guys - climbing the wall and eventually getting six blocks.

Cris is still at it with his "petiks-petiks ranting" against Rob and admitted he refused Rob's handshake.

At the camp, Rob and Cris talks about their differences in strategies..

Rob says "Kahit kailan hindi ko sinulat ang pangalan mo (sa TC) and in fact, ikaw pa nga ang nagsulat ng pangalan ko.. Kanya-kanyang istratehiya talaga.."

"Pwede ka pa ring maging mayor," retorts Cris.

"Pare, wag na nating sayangin ang 36, 37 days nating magkakasama-sama para mag-away... "says Rob. While Cris quote of the day was, "Pero paglabas natin ng island, hindi pa rin tayo magka-level..."

At the Tribal Council

Paolo asks Cris what he feels after Zita's exit. Cris says that he misses Nanay Zita and life is more difficult. While JC says that he's already doing the chores - cooking rice and looking for halaan, which he never did while Zita was around. He also learned who to trust and look on the good side of people. Charisse says that even after the show, she believes that they could all be friends because of the bonding that they had, 24/7.

Rob then says that he was just "tumatanaw ng utang na loob" with JC that's why they are inseparable and he also believes that though he didn't really won any Immunity Challenge, he remains at the camp because "maganda ang pakikitungo ko sa mga tao, hindi lang sa isa.."

About the IC. Cris says that he knows that without the Immunity Necklace, he is the next to go. Rob is thankful to Cris for giving him clues in the sand pit. Cris says that even if he knows that Rob will vote him out, he gave him the hint just to prove that he could be trusted. "Dapat magtiwala siya sa sarili nya, hindi yung umaasa siya sa iba..." Cris also never hoped that JC would give him the necklace.

JC meanwhile is confident that he won't be voted off because of his trust with Rob and Cha; that's why he picked the car over the necklace.

Rob defends his status on the island and his gift from JC by insisting that he didn't ask for the necklace. "Iba yung hiningi kaysa sa binigay... " (Referring to Cris, asking JC to give him the last IC.) Rob says that since day 1, he has already been trustworthy and he was able to manage himself. Rob attributes his stay in the island with his strategy and he hopes that the jury would see that... PB also asked Rob about the Kiko - black pearl incident.

The votes

Charisse on voting off Cris, "Sa IC kanina kung nanalo ka, iba siguro magiging desisyon ko ngayon..."

Cris on voting off JC "Sobrang galing nya, malakas siya kaya siya ang iboboto ko..."

JC on voting off Cris "Nawala na yung tiwala ko sayo nung binoto mo si Kiko..."

Cris is now the 7th member of the Jury and his first stop: THE SP FANS PARTY!

"Sa mga bagay-bagay na nakita nyo yun ang naging basehan ko sa game. Pagpasensyahan nyo na ako. Nagpapasalamat pa rin ako sa taas dahil nakasali ako rito..."

Episode 59: Rob rides to safety via JC's new car

JC will get to drive his brand new car... Rob rides to safety while Cris rubs off with Rob's petiks strategy...

Survivor Philippines viewer ka ba? Sino ang nanalo ng Immunity Challenge:

(a) Rob
(b) JC
(c) Cris
Itext na ang sagot sa 4627.

Kumusta naman ang editing? I am one of those rooting for the underdog Cha, and on the commercial break before the show resumed on the challenge and winner declared there is this text promo that disqualified our excitement. Naman!

JC deserves the prize. He's all over the challenges. He's giving it all. Yet for a deficient reason that he don't do chores, people keeps off from supporting him. Yet, since there are far more needy of the prize than him, people were blindsided. He has what it takes to win. Give him a shot. It is still anybody's game.

Survivors Pasok: Ito ay sukatan ng lakas, tapang at talino. Paolo described the Immunity Challenge as the "Pinakamalaking Pagsubok in 37 Days," called it Mega Challenge. The challenge, which combined some of the previous games, have 7 stations.

(1) It starts by pushing the giant wooden ball hundreds of meters to reach a mat.
(2) Then the player needs to run into a post, roll himself to cover with clothe (arms up).
(3) And he needs to roll out to uncover and ran into the table for some palatable dish. He needs to consume a scorpion, chameleon, millipede and lizard, yes BUTIKI!
(4) After the meal, he needs to run some meters and climb a wall.
(5) Jump into a cargo net and find his way out into a sand pit.
(6) The player needs to dig and find seven blocks of same color to complete the Thai weekday symbols orderly. In case of confusion or wrong attempt, he can run into the cheat table and return back to resolve the puzzle.
(7) When he's done, he should raise his flag and win.

It was a close battle between Cris and JC until the wall climbing. Cris came first from the giant ball but JC took the lead from the cargo net. They went head to head during the sandpit battle. Charisse, understandably came last in pushing the heavy giant ball, but did fought a good battle. She showed determination and will to win. We saw how hungry she consumed all the finger-lickin' goodies in the table. Galing! It was a sign of relief when she was able to reach the sandpit and continue the race. Yet she struggled in finding her blocks.

Who will win the car in Survivor Philippines?

Only four castaways remain in Survivor Philippines and one of them will receive a brand new car.

In the next Immunity Challenge, the winning Castaway will be given the chance to choose between getting a car prize or claiming the Immunity necklace.

Whichever item he does not pick will be given to another tribe member of his choice.

The remaining members of Chalam Tribe Charisse Yacapin, JC Tiuseco, Rob Sy and Cris Cartagenas all stand a chance to win either of the two prized rewards. But one of them also becomes vulnerable to the infamous and controversial "Survivor Car Curse."

Giving away a car prize during the last few days in the island has become a part of Survivor tradition. And throughout the different seasons of Survivor, almost all of the winners of the car prize end up losing the game.

Whether the car winners lost because of a stroke of bad luck or a bad strategy remains to be seen. But previous Castaways seemed to rule out coincidence since the "Survivor Car Curse" strikes almost without fail. Because of this, most castaways would use the car prize as an opportunity to eliminate another contender.

Will the curse continue in Survivor Philippines?

Or will the car finally become a good luck charm that would lead one to become the first Pinoy Sole Survivor?

All answers will be revealed in the final episodes of Survivor Philippines airing weeknights after LaLola on GMA-7. Watch for the explosive ending of the reality show on December 12, 2008.

Episode 58: The Duo Wins the Reward-o!

Rob wins the RC, gets JC to the jacuzzi... lol

And again, it seems that the lady luck is on the side of our dynamic duo, JC and Rob.

For the reward challenge, the four castaways must utilize the skills they learned at the camp life. For the first obstacle course, they must cross an improvised bridge - using a pair of customized stools to serve as their steps. (mahirap i-describe to ha! ;P)

Once they crossed the bridge, the see - saw construction is up next - where the castaways must first fire up a bucket filled with wood and gusot, then pour water on another holed-up bucket on the other end.

The first castaway whose fire - bucket end of the see - saw reaches the nitsa or pulbura - filled bucket, and it fires up, wins the reward challenge and his reward - massage, spa and fine dining at Krab, Island.

JC as usual is leading the pack. He first crosses the bridge and gets to the next stage first. But it was a neck and neck battle among the four, as they found it challenging to lit - up the nitsa.

Eventually, Rob wins his second reward challenge and without double thoughts, picks his best ally JC to join him because of his "Malaking pagkakautang..."

Charisse submits to Rob's decision by saying it's obvious who Rob would pick or who JC would pick... "It has no impact on my end..."

As for JC, he's ever grateful to Rob for picking him, "Sobrang kailangan ang reward na 'to dahil kailangan ng lakas para sa gagawin sa Immunity Challenge bukas..." Although JC initially thought that Rob would pick Charisse, since the lone girl has not won any reward yet.

BRomantic

So what was the reward to Rob and JC... First they had a full - fine dining dinner, (may ganun?) which Rob describes as "Wow, it was so romantic. Gusto ko na ngang gawing babae si JC eh, kaya lang hindi pwede eh, basketbolista na, lalaki pa...."(Dapat sinabi mo, lalaki na, basketbolista pa... joke!)

Rob and JC even had a hard time eating since they are no longer accustomed to using "pa-knife - knife and pa-fork, fork..." and they even had five or six servings of food - mostly viand, veggies.

At the Vogue resort and spa... Rob and JC had some foot scrub and a full body - soft massage. Nakatulog na si JC sa sarap. And the two indeed shared a jacuzzi. lol (tama lang ung teaser line ko... )

"Sobrang saya ko, sobrang thankful ako kay rob, sobrang mahilig ako sa spa... sobrang thankful ako kay Lord, sobrang important..." (Sobra ka na JC ha..)

And the two buddies slept (as in natulog) at Alis hotel...

Cha-Crisse

Cris was practically yapping against Rob while the duo is having the time of their lives. Saying how ampaw he is, how pa-petik-petik and kalmado he is all throughout the game. Rob is practically trying to convince Charisse to vote against Rob.

"Sinasabi nya utak ginamit nya, kung ano ang nilaki ng utak nya, yun din ang pagka-ampaw nya..."

Charisse appears convinced saying, "I bet matutuwa ang jury kapag natanggal si Rob".

But our last lady is also aware that she has a very small chance winning the immunity challenge saying, "Ang liit - liit ng chance. Hindi mo naman alam kung sino ang dadalhin nya sa final 2 diba..."

As for Charisse' final say about Nanay Zita...

"Even if Survivor is not a charity game, many times nafi-feel mo na yung less fortunate sana ang nakakuha ng prize money because they needed it more. But at the end of the day, it is still a competition. Lahat naman tayo dito, pantay - pantay..." (nicely said Cha...)

Bukas

Paolo says... Mula day 1 - day 37, ito na ang pinakaimportanteng reward... Hot Wheels!

Episode 57: The Shock of Our Lives: We Love You Nanay Zita

Tatlumpo't limang araw, ika'y nagtagal
nagsikap , nagtiis; para sa minamahal
hindi inalintana, ang buhay sa isla
pagsaing at paglaba, ginawa ding kusa

hindi lamang ikaw nay ang nanghihinayang

mga dotcomers pati, sadyang nag-aabang

labis din ang lungkot, ang aming nadarama

ang iyong paglisan, tila di yata tama

di mo man nakamit, nakatayang yaman
para sa amin nay, panalo pa rin naman!
iyiong pinaalala, halaga ng pamilya
pagsasamang tapat, sa hirap at ginhawa

nay ika'y humayo, siya naming ilaw
inspirasyong tunay, puso nami'y sinaklaw
idolo kong tiyak, sunod sa 'king ina
bukal mong puso, nay ika'y pinagpala!

_____________________________________

Betrayal... who gets the shock of her life? It's Zita and the whole nation. Instead of a recap, let me put my two cents in.

So last night indeed was another unexpected and heartbreaking turn of events. Zita, the quintessential mother, tagged as "Nanay ng Bayan" got voted off from the island. And the culprits of the "betrayal" are JC, Charisse and Rob. Cris voted against Rob while Zita voted against JC.

In all honesty, I was fixated last night on JC, thinking that he would get voted off - simply because, when it comes to the issue of the biggest betrayal, Cris could've betrayed against JC. Because JC sacrificed or gave way for the Immunity Challenge so Cris would be off the hook and the black pearl votes would be nulled. So, if Cris voted against JC, that would've been a bigger betrayal. Besides, JC had a longer exposure and interview last night, so I honestly thought it was him. Not to mention, on the back of my mind, I also wanted JC to be voted off just to get rid of the damn spoiler about him being the eventual sole survivor.

And so, never did it cross my mind last night while I was watching that Zita would be voted off - and I actually cried in my dreams about Zita being voted off (really, I cried about it in my dream last night.)

So why are the SP fans and DotComers up and arms against Zita being voted off. (Geez, guys, you have an onslaught of comments - really firing it up. But mind you - stop the hating about JC's gf and all those fighting among yourselves.. totally immature. ;))

First: Zita is our image, our idea of a typical Filipina Mother / Lola / Yaya / that sweet old lady in the palengke, cafeteria or sari-sari store that we just love. Among the castaways, Zita is the only one who is most natural and has never had any major "masamang tinapay" against anyone.

Second: Zita deserves and needs the 3M prize more than any other. It's the poor factor. It's also her being one of the strongest contenders during every challenge - winning the first ever IC, being a great swimmer and being the most reliable person in the camp life. It's her being most deserving and needy. No question about it.

Third: Because, Zita is not really playing the game. Sometimes - she goes with the flow, follows her heart and cries her heart out.

Oh god, Zita is the ultimate tearjerker - how many times have she made me cry... - During her talk with Vevh (Anak, ilalaglag nyo na ba ako?); Zita crying over Niña's exit; Zita winning the first IC; Zita crying over Marlon's pandedemonyo during their argument... Zita and his Manugang's tearful reunion... ( I mean, how many manugang and biyenan have that kind of relationship, enough to make a grown man cry.)

And the list could go on and on why people would've wanted Zita to win...

But what should've happened instead? Why is it especially painful that Zita got voted off?

First. It's because her former Naak children voted against her: JC and Rob. Which signified the JC, Rob and Charisse alliance.

Second: It is just unfair that Charisse and Rob outlasted her on the island. Rob - the "barnacle on the ship" (as iosephusmagus puts it) and Charisse - with her "cloak and dagger scheme" (as iosephusmagus puts it as well). This means that strategy and alliance would make a castaway outlast, more than physical strength or being a "mother figure".

Third: Because, we would have wanted Zita to be on the top 3 or top 2. She is practically an automatic winner when the final decision of the tribal jury comes.

This now reminds me of the personal bets of the former castaways - most of them have answered Zita - which could've been an omen for us that whoever their personal bets would practically not reach the final 2. Although Kiko's bet, JC is still around.

In the name of the game:

It is pretty obvious that whoever is left with Zita at the final two is on the losing end. That is why early on, she is voted off. This is probably the line of thinking of JC, Rob and Charisse. Cris is beholden to Nanay Zita after their Bangkok Tour, that's why Cris voted against Rob.

JC and Rob have a solid loyalty for each other. Cris already had his share of betrayal - while Charisse is always the bearer of the essential swing vote. I always thought that Charisse possesses the curse. Siya talaga ang may sumpa and the black pearl was actually a lucky charm, since whoever got it remained safe.

On the other side of the coin

Am I angry at JC for probably orchestrating the scenario of Zita being voted off? Is JC's charm more powerful than Zita's motherly care? I will hold that thought.

If not Zita, JC is the strongest contender - winning challenges one after the other. Strategizing his alliances and keeping them in tact much better than Kiko did. That is why Zita voted JC off. Not to mention, JC is not as "needy" of the money.

At this point of the game, it's Cris and JC that remain most deserving to become the sole survivor. Regardless of their share of betrayals. And as we approach the finals days, it's more and more apparent that JC could ultimately win the game. Such a lucky guy, if that so happens, to think that he should've have been the first castoff instead of Chev.

God Bless Zita

So, Zita has left the island. She has left an indelible mark. Showed us how mothers tend to sacrifice everything for her children til the very end. You never gave us any reason to hate you.

As for her final words...

"Dapat utak ang gamitin at hindi ang puso sa larong ito, dahil kapag puso, masasaktan ka. Hindi ba sinabi ko sa inyo na kung ako na ang susunod, sabihin nyo sa'kin. JC, Rob, Charisse and Cris... hindi ko akalaing gagawin nyo to sa'kin. Hindi man ako makaganti sa inyo, ang ibang tao na ang gagawa. Kapag ginawan mo ng masama ang iba, babalik din sa'yo ang kasamaan..."

Final notes

I believe the tribemates had no time to really discuss about who they would vote off... it was a sudden TC, that is why they didn't get to forewarn Zita. But JC and Rob already knows that Zita would vote off against JC, hence the hand signals during the IC...)

On Zita's guesting at Unang Hirit earlier this morning, she said that she got hurt but she understands that all of them want to win the 3M. She's happy about people acknowledging her in public and she is grateful for Survivor about everything. (pahabol - Zita also said that she received text messages last night from JC and the rest, saying sorry to her and "it's just a game." msgs.)

The castaways are all given "Talent Fees" or "compensations" during their stay on the island. Marlon saved up his stash to invest on a Chawarma business. I bet Zita got her share too.... and we know that blessings would outpour on her!

Four remain as 'Nanay' Zita is booted out of Survivor

Only four castaways remain in the Survivor Philippines after 43-year-old laundrywoman Zita Ortiga was eliminated by the Tribal Council on Tuesday.

With Nanay Zita’s elimination, the battle to be the first sole Survivor is a toss-up between Anna Charisse Yacapin, John Carlo “JC" Tuiseco, Robert Vincent “Rob" Sy, and Crisanto “Cris" Cartegenas.

Based on the tally of votes which was read by Survivor host Paolo Bediones, Zita - of the Naak tribe - received three votes, while Rob and JC got one each. Cris was not included after he won the immunity challenge.

With four remaining in the island, Bediones emphasized the importance to win the next immunity challenge to stay in the game.

Meanwhile, Nanay Zita expressed her disappointment against her Naak tribe members JC, Rob and Cris. Only Charisse remains from the old Jarakay tribe.

“Sobra. Noon ko sinabi na hindi puso kundi utak ang gamitin…Sinabi ko sa kanila kapag aalisin ako sabihin nila," Nanay Zita complained.

“Alam nila na kailangan ko ang pera…Kung hindi man ako makaganti may ibang gaganti," she ended.

Episode 56: Cris wins IC, but is he safe?

I GUESS he is safe. Why? If the preview of tomorrow's episode is not misleading, Paolo, holding a peal, is about to show, "Ang ikalabing-apat na natanggal sa Survivor Philippines at ikaanim na myembro ng ating jury..." That's if the imminuty necklace is in effect. What if the penalty of intentionally losing the blackpearl is losing the effect of immunity as well?

I have, though, this gut feel that the intentional losing of the blackpearl would backfire on Cris. What if each receives one vote?

How will the Cha-Rob-JC (CRJ) alliance fair on the Tribal Council? Para saan ang mga sensyas?

--------------------------

Before the Immunity Challenge, which CRJ has kinda predicted what it is like, they knew Cris would do well - like how he lasted for 4 hours standing only with a quarter inch plank.

"Cris will hang for his dear life."

Nay Zita and Cris arrived from the Bangkok tour. They were warmly welcomed by CRJ. Shared their stories. Nay Zita reiterates he chose Cris right to go with her since the others can afford of might have already experience such. Rob couldn't agree more on how deserving Nay Zita and Cris for the reward.

CRJ were happy now that Nay Zita is back, they don't need to do the chores anymore."Siya na ulit ng siya... at least pwede na ulit kami magrelax."

"Cris pa-hug naman..." Charisse invites Cris to tell more stories.

-------------------------

SURVIVOR PASOK!

FOR IMMUNITY. The challenge starts as the castaways stand on a balancing platform holding two ropes with each hand. After 30 minutes, they should lose grip on one rope. They can hold the other rope with both hands. after 30 more minutes, they should let go of the ropes. They can lean on any other parts of the frame except holding the ropes again, and their hands should not touch any in the frame. After 30 more minutes, only one feet remains in the platform. The other feet should not touch the ground. They can't switch feet nor lean on the other.

SURVIVORS READY?

After the first hour, everybody hangs on.The boys lean their backs agains the frame. Mommy Zita was the first to be disqualified, losing the balance and touching the frame. The other four got beyond the 90-minutes mark, balancing on one foot.

ROB GAVE UP, reasoning that he slipped his foot. Seeing his alliances Cha and JC balancing very well, he stepped down thinking safe. "Why would I prolong the agony, ika nga, e yung dalawa kong alliance is maganda naman ang posisyon. Bat ko papahirapan ang sarili ko."

Charisse fell out of balance at 4 hours 20 minutes mark. JC gave up the challenge after exchanging signals with "_" doing the thumbs up sign.

Cris won immunity. 4 hours 29 minutes. Paolo said, "LIGTAS KA SA TRIBAL COUNCIL."

Episode 55: Momentarily...

MOMENTS. Nanay Zita enjoyed the Bangkok trip with her son-in-law, Leo along with Cris and his mom. They had fine dining, watched an Elephant Show, amazed by a heart-pounding croc show, went into a cultural presentation, shopped for pasalubong, and gone wild on the dance floo...

Nay Zita selected Cris to share the prize with for the simple reason that they belong to the same class. "Lahat kina Rob, Charisse at JC ay mayaman naman..."

Chalam terribly misses Nanay Zita who does everything for them.

Cris is happy that her mom experienced to travel abroad even for a limited time only. One question, why Nanay Zita had not any of her children go there instead of her son-in-law?

MOMENTS OF LOVE. Alu, JC's girlfriend who lived with Chalam for a day, had so much realization. 33 days in the island Charisse, Rob and JC haven't tried and learned to cook rice or lugaw. She thought and eventually felt how chilling it is every night in the camp. She got a taste of the tribe's meals - learned that they always request for 'sunog' in the rice as it adds flavor to what they eat than just having a plain bland rice. JC and Alu hunt for halaan..

Buti hindi siya maarte... She liked what Charisse has prepared.

And of course, they had their moment sa beach. When Alu has to leave, try as they may not to shed tears, they couldn't help it. JC was even more emo on the cam.

If there's one thing that scares her, "I'm scared na maiiba ng game si JC..."

(Alu, reminded me kung gaano kaputi si Charisse at the start of Survivor )

The tourists at Bangkok could not express further how happy and fulfilling the reward is. "Wala ng mapaglagyan ng saya," Nay Zita tells.

ON THE ALLIANCES. It looks like the 3 who remained in the camp will go all the way to eliminate Cris. Could Nanay Zita be next on their list.

Survivor castoff Kaye Alipio wants to play villain’s role

Handa raw ang Survivor castoff na si Kristina “Kaye" Alipio na pasukin ang mundo ng showbiz. At ang kanyang dream role – maging kontrabida.

Si Kaye ang ika-13 castaways na natanggal sa Survivor Philippines at nagbigay daan upang maiwan ang top-5 sa nangungunang reality TV show sa Pilipinas ngayon.

Sa live interview ng Chika Minute portion ng GMA news 24 Oras nitong Huwebes, tinanong ng host na si Pia Guanio kung nais pa rin Kaye na ituloy ang kanyang balak na mag-showbiz at ano ang kanyang dream role.

“Kontrabida," mabilis na tugon ng 20-anyos na si Kaye na isang lingerie model. “Kasi yun daw ang nakikita sa akin sa island, yung mukha ko nakakainis, tapos mukha pang kontrabida ganyan. Siguro kakarerin ko na lang ang pagiging kontrabida ko."

Idinepensa rin ng seksing survivor ang sarili at sinabing hindi siya traydor tulad ng pagtingin sa kanya ng mga dating ka-tribu sa reality show matapos niyang iboto ang kasamahan sa Naak na si Kiko Rustia.

Ipinaliwanag ni Kaye na sarili niyang desisyon ang ginawa niya sa isla. Naramdaman na rin umano niya na siya na ang patatalsikin sa grupo nang matunugan niya na ipinalit sa kanya ng mga dating kaalyansa si Anna “Charisse" Yacapin, na mula sa Jarakay tribe.
Nilinaw daw ni Kaye na kaya niya ibigay kay Crisanto “Cris" Cartagenas ang may “sumpang" black pearl ay upang itapon na ito para hindi na magdusa ang iba pa.

Sa patakaran ng “Survivor," ang mabibigyan ng itim na perlas ay awtomatikong may isang boto upang mapatalsik sa isla.

Ayon sa dalaga, nagkausap sila minsan ni Cris at sinabi ng huli na itatapos nya ang perlas kapag siya ang nakakuha upang wala nang magdusa.

Sa pagkakaalis ni Kaye, natira ang top 5 castaways na sina Charisse, isang product officer; Cris, isang company driver; basketball hunk na si John Carlo “JC" Tuiseco; ang sales officer na si Robert Vincent “Rob" Sy at ang 43-anyos na labandera na si Nanay “Zita" Ortega.

 

- Fidel Jimenez, GMANews.TV

Lingerie model Kaye voted off Survivor

On Day 32 of Survivor Philippines, lingerie model Kaye Alipio got the boot to become the 13th person to be voted out from GMA-7's reality show. Kaye also became the fifth member of the Jury, who will have the power to pick the winner. She has now joined Jace Flores, Kiko Rustia, Vern Domingo, and Marlon Carmen in the Jury.

Kaye was voted off because of trust issue. It should be recalled that Kaye and Cris turned their backs on their former Naak tribemate Kiko early on the merge.

Although Kaye and Cris both voted against Charisse in tonight's Tribal Council, their original Naak tribemates (JC Tiuseco, Rob Sy, and Zita Ortiga) voted against Kaye. The only remaining member of the old Jarakay tribe, Charisse survived elimination after one of two votes against her was not counted because of the white pearl that was in her possession. So, the official count was 4-1 against Kaye.

During the Tribal Council, host Paolo Bediones asked the castaways if they deserve to be still in the game. While the castaways were answering, Marlon kept on making faces to show his disapproval. He even whispered "bullshit!" at one point when Cris said something.

Before leaving the Tribal Council, Kaye was asked by Paolo to choose between the white pearl and the black pearl, and give it to one of the remaining castaways. The white pearl will serve as a protection to the one holding it, while the black pearl symbolizes a curse to the holder.

Kaye chose the black pearl and she gave it to Cris. Paolo warned Cris that he automatically gets one vote in the next Tribal Council. Should he fail to bring it or lose it on purpose, two votes will be counted against him.

But on his way out of the Tribal Council, Cris threw the black pearl away. So next week, Cris has additional two votes against him. With only five castaways remaining, he only needs one vote to seal his fate. Cris said that he did it "para hindi na sila mahirapan sa pagboto."

Cris, who arrived at the Tribal Council wearing a tube, also got a warning from Paolo not to wear a woman's dress again since the Tribal Council is a serious matter. Cris explained that they were just having fun, although he did not mention to Paolo that the reason why he wore a woman's dress is to make fun of Jury member Vern, who made quite a scene for posing like a model in the last Tribal Council.

JC was safe from tonight's Tribal Council after winning the Immunity Challenge for the second time in a row. Nanay Zita, meanwhile, finished second proving that at her age, she can compete against the younger castaways who are more physically fit.

 

- Philippine Entertainment Portal

Episode 53: Kaye, Kaye Go Away...

Who is Kaye's next target? You'll never know what's in Kaye's mind but her obvious two-faced tactics made way for her exit at the early Tribal Council. And ironically, Kaye voted off the exact same person she promised would be safe from elimination - Charisse.

But before we proceed to the tribal council, let's do some run down on one of the best Wednesday episodes so far.

After the Immunity Challenge won again by JC, Rob warns Nanay Zita about Kaye's plan to vote her off.

According to Rob, Kaye asked him "Hindi ka ba natatakot kay Nanay Zita?" To which, Zita's classic response was "Patay!"

Apparently, it was Rob who blew Kaye's cover. Rob first told Zita about Kaye's plan to vote her off; then he told JC about Kaye's sudden change of tune when JC won the IC; and finally Rob told Cris about Kaye's plan to remove the "For the boys alliance, one by one..." and have the last three girls remain standing. Apparently, Rob became the whistleblower this time.

But Kaye is saying a different version to Charisse - assuring her again of her trust and saying that she wanted Zita to be voted off first because, Rob is easier to defeat and she wants Char to be with her at the final 2.

Charisse, however is just going with the flow. She knows that Kaye has told a different version of the story to JC.

The night before the TC, Rob, Cris and Zita looked for food and they also renovated their roof with their ponchos for them to sleep better. Cris also had an idea of making themselves look like fashionistas like Vern... by wearing pooka shell necklaces and by Cris wearing a female top.

At the Tribal Council, Paolo welcomes the jury members - Jace, Kiko, Ven (looking hotter than ever) and finally, Marlon.

Serious PB, first asked the remaining Chalam tribemates why they deserve to stay in the game.

Rob said that he is always under the radar - not on top and not on the bottom. He proudly says that at the RC that matters the most, he won. Zita relays her disappointment at almost winning the cash. But she also said that she gave Cris some tips at the plank location at the last IC, so that she could show the country that she is a fair competitor.

When PB asked the castaways if they trust anyone at all, Charisse admits that she doesn't trust anyone because she's not sure if the Naak alliance is still solid and her being the lone Jarakay, should not make her feel comfortable.

PB then warns Cris about his clothing antics since his Tribal Council should be taken seriously. Cris apologizes.

At the jury's area, Marlon and Vern continuously react with their smirks and snobs.

The votes:

Kaye goes first and surprisingly votes against Charisse, saying that she wants to claim back Naak's trust.

Cris votes against Charisse as well. (Ironically, these two ex-Naak who once sided with the Jarakays voted off Charisse)

Zita, JC and Rob voted against Kaye.

Charisse voted off Kaye, saying that her alliance with JC is stronger now.

When PB read the results, Cha's one vote automatically was deducted because of the white pearl. And the results read Kaye's exit.

PB then made Kaye choose between a black or a white pear. Kaye picked the cursed one, and handed it over to Cris... (the only other guy who voted not against her - geez, these people has wrong instincts.)

For Kaye's final words: "Sana sinabi na lang din ni Cris sa akin na ako na pala para nakapagbonding pa ako.. (clueless ka talaga iha, ikaw na pala ang target...). Mahal ko kayong lahat na mga natitira dyan..."

Cris then throws away the black pearl as they exit the Tribal Council area. "Para hindi na sila mahirapan" he says.

Survivor's Marlon Carmen: Hindi po ako masamang tao

Nakausap ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment portal) ang tinaguriang "bad boy of primetime television" na si Marlon Carmen ng Survivor Philippines sa taping ng QTV 11 show na The Sweet Life kagabi, November 25. Si Marlon ang latest castaway na na-vote out mula sa Survivor Philippines

Binitin kasi ng Survivor Philippines ang tanggalan nila last Friday, November 21, para sa exciting na revelation na ito. Kaya last Monday, November 24, ay nalaman na ng followers ng reality show ng GMA-7 na si Marlon ang natanggal.

THE BLACK & WHITE PEARLS. May isa pang twist pagkatapos ma-vote out ni Marlon. Imbes na black pearl ang ibinigay sa kanya ng host na si Paolo Bediones ay white pearl ang iniabot sa kanya.

Ang black pearl kasi ay magsisilbing sumpa sa sinumang may hawak nito at awtomatikong may isang boto laban sa kanya sa susunod na Tribal Council. Ang white pearl naman ay magsisilbing proteksiyon sa nagmamay-ari nito, at mababawasan siya ng isang boto sa susunod na botohan.

Nasira ang unang plano ni Marlon na ibigay ang black pearl na may sumpa kay Cris Cartagenas, na siyang binoto niyang ma-vote out sa isla. Pero pinalitan na nga ang black pearl ng puting perlas, at kay Charisse Yacapin niya ito inabot.

"Iba-iba ang plano ko in case na may black pearl, e," sabi ni Marlon. "Gusto ko nga siyang itapon na lang para wala nang sumpa na maipasa sa mga maiiwan. Pero buti na lang at white pearl ‘yon. And I really chose Charisse kasi siya na lang ang tanging naiiwan na kasamahan ko sa Jarakay Tribe. Naubos na kami kaya I want her to have that protection.

"Kay Charisse ko kasi nakita yung pagiging tunay na kaibigan sa isla. She was the only one that I trusted, lalo na kung may mga plano ako. Ang ipinapakita lang kasi sa TV yung laging napipikon si Charisse sa akin. Pero marami kaming moments na serious kaming nag-uusap at nakikinig siya sa akin.

"At iba rin kung maging loyal si Charisse. Kita n'yo naman, kahit na naging close niya si Kiko [Rustia], still, binoto pa rin niyang maalis si Kiko sa isla. Kasi alam niyang big threat para sa aming lahat si Kiko. Kahit na masama sa loob niya, ginawa pa rin niya yung alam niyang tama para sa tribo namin," lahad ng Survivor castoff.

Kung papipiliin si Marlon kung sino ang gusto niyang manalo sa Survivor Philippines, ang pipiliin daw niya ay walang iba kundi si Charisse.

"Sa lahat naman, si Charisse para sa akin ang deserving. Hindi kasi nila alam kung paano maglaro si Charisse. Iba rin ang utak ng babaeng ‘yan. Kaya mag-ingat silang lahat kay Charisse, kasi she knows how to play games. At bilib ako sa kanya kasi hindi mo mahahalata. Kaya for me, Charisse is the best person to win the game."

Pero okey lang ba sa kanya na ibinoto siya ni Charisse na matanggal na sa tribo?

"Alam ko naman na mangyayari ‘yon kaya wala akong sama ng loob kay Charisse," sabi ni Marlon. "It's either me o siya ang mawala, e. Pero that night, alam ko na ako na ang makakakuha ng maraming boto. I have no ill feelings towards Charisse kasi sinunod lang niya ang nararapat."

Kasama si Marlon sa Tribal Jury na kinabibilangan, as of now, ng iba pang castoffs na sina Jace Flores, Kiko Rustia, at Vern Domingo.

BAD IMAGE. Marami ang gustong mawala na si Marlon sa Survivor Philippines dahil sa pagiging tuso at mapanira nito. Malaking turn off din ang pananakot na ginagawa niya sa mga castaways na paraan niya para hindi siya ma-vote out. Pero sa nangyari nga ay walang natakot sa mga banta niya.

Aminado si Marlon na dahil sa mga ipinakita niya sa Survivor Philippines ay mas marami raw galit sa kanya ngayon kesa sa mga bumilib sa galing niyang magpaikot ng mga kasamahan sa isla.

"Meron namang mga nagsasabi na walang masama sa ginawa ko dahil survival of the fittest talaga ang laro namin. Pero mas nakakarami ang nagagalit sa akin. Sa mga blog site nga, iba ang tingin nila sa akin. Pero kilalanin muna nila ako bago nila ako husgahan. Isipin na lang nila na laro ‘yon at lahat kami may kanya-kanyang strategy dahil sa premyong tatlong milyong piso," paliwanag ni Marlon.

Fan daw kasi ng programang Survivor si Marlon kaya alam niya ang mga style ng paggapang sa ibang contestants.

"Napanood ko ang ilang seasons ng U.S. version ng Survivor at pinag-aralan ko talaga ang dumiskarte at makuha ang loob ng mga kalaban ko. Lahat naman ng napanood nila sa akin, it was all part of the game. Hindi po ako masamang tao tulad ng inaakala nila.

"Lahat kami doon ay naglalaro for the three-million prize at lahat ng puwede naming gawin, good or bad, ay gagawin namin para lang manalo. Hindi lang test of physical strength ang Survivor, mind game talaga ito. Kaya kung mahina ang pag-iisip mo, madali kang mababasa at malalaglag ka," saad niya.

NOT A WAITER ANYMORE. Pagkatapos niyang sumali sa Survivor Philippines ay hindi na bumalik si Marlon sa pinagtatrabahuan niyang restaurant sa SM Mall Of Asia. Ang perang nakuha niya sa ilang days na tinagal niya sa isla ay ipinagpatayo raw niya ng isang Shawarma business.

"After kong makauwi, inisip ko na ang magiging kinabukasan ko. Gusto ko nang magtayo ng sarili kong negosyo. Para na rin sa future ng magiging pamilya ko, di ba? May girlfriend naman na ako at susunod na lang ang pagpapakasal namin.

"Gusto kong pagyamanin ang nakuha kong experience sa show. Yung pagiging independent sa lahat ng bagay. I've been working as a waiter since 1995. Marami na akong napasukan na mga restaurants at gano'n at gano'n na lang parati ang routine.

"Ngayon, I want to make a difference sa buhay ko. I want to start my own business at palalakihin ko iyon sa sipag at tiyaga ko. Alam ko na makakaya ko ‘yon," sabi ni Marlon.

Sa kasalukuyan ay anim na lang ang natitirang castaways sa Survivor Philippines—sina Charisse, Cris, JC Tiuseco, Zita Ortiga, Rob Sy, at Kaye Alipio. Pero mamayang gabi ay mababawasan na naman sila dahil may gaganapin na namang Tribal Council.

Last two weeks na lang ang Survivor Philippines. Sa December na magaganap ang kanilang reunion at malalaman na kung sino ang Final Two na maglalaban for the Pinoy Sole Survivor title.

 

- Philippine Entertainment Portal

Episode 52: The White Elephant Goes to JC again

It's coffee time at Chalam. Nanay Zita, upon going back to the camp, immediately boils some water for them to savor the coffee reward for Rob.

Zita admits that she is "nagpapa-alila" for her to be safe.

It's been a while since the castaways had coffee... JC confesses that he only drinks coffee outside, not at home (Totyal!); Charisse is also one hell of a coffee drinker.

Rob was ecstatic about his reward (finally) - winning a cash prize everybody wanted, and the best part about it - his family gets to receive it.

JC and Charisse concede by saying "It's meant for you..."

Meanwhile, JC is happy that everyone's happy about Rob's being happy for the reward. Such a happy kid, he is.

And so, JC tells them that he is already falling, err, seeing the good side of Marlon. Although, when Marlon planned of destroying the tribe/camp, JC kinda backtracked.

Rob finally gets to read the treemail - a preview of a very physical challenge at hand.

The immunity challenge: The goal is to get the white elephant at the tower at end of the obstacle course. The castaways must climb and crawl through a rope to get their flags; the four who get to finish the first round first, continue to the second round. JC, Zita, Rob and Cris made it.

Kaye assures Charisse that the latter is safe from the vote off.

The second stage, three castaways must get their flags after an obstacle course at the water. Rob gets left behind - Zita, Cris and JC move on.

At the final stage, the three must dig out from a sand dune their respective color - coded planks which they would eventually place on the tower as their stairs towards the white elephant.

Cris continues to complain about his wound and could hardly find a plank. Zita had a hard time looking for her planks as well, while JC kept his pace.

Eventually, JC gets the Immunity Necklace once more.

"Kailangan kong manalo ng IC kasi alam ko na ako naman talaga ang target nila," he says.

"Bad boy" Marlon Carmen ends his "Survivor Philippines" journey

Dubbed as the "bad boy of Philippine primetime television," waiter Marlon Carmen finally got the boot in tonight's episode of GMA-7 reality show Survivor Philippines.

With only seven castaways left, all the tribemates of Marlon in Chalam voted against him, while he voted against company driver Cris Cartagenas. With his ouster, Marlon became the 12th person to be voted out from Survivor Philippines and he also became the fourth member of the Jury; along with Jace Flores, Kiko Rustia, and Vern Domingo.

Before the Tribal Council, Marlon already sensed that he would be voted off next. As a last-ditch effort to save himself from the game, he threatened to hide the flint and kill the fire if his tribemates vote him out.

During the Tribal Council, host Paolo Bediones read Marlon's letter. His tribemates looked shocked and disgusted by Marlon's initial plan.

In the end, Marlon had a change of heart and did not continue his devious plan.

But just like most of the villains in movies and teledramas, Marlon would not go down without giving a last fight. He said that he has another plan that he refused to tell to anyone.

"Meron pa akong isang nakakatakot kung itutuloy ko...ako lang ang nakakaalam... Itong larong ito, napaka-brutal, e." "It's for you guys to know and for me to find out," Marlon said about his "secret weapon."

But his tribemates had enough of Marlon so they voted him off, including his former Jarakay tribemate Charisse Yacapin. Charisse, who was holding the "black pearl," automatically had one vote even before the voting started. But she was able to survive elimination, thanks to Marlon's ouster.

Before leaving the Tribal Council, Marlon was asked to give the "white pearl"—which replaced the "black pearl"—to one of the remaining castaways. This "white pearl" will serve as a protection to the one holding it. Meaning, a vote will be subtracted to the holder of the "white pearl" in the next Tribal Council.

Marlon decided to give the "white pearl" to Charisse, who is now the only remaining member of the old Jarakay tribe.

In the last Immunity challenge, varsity player JC Tiuseco won so he was safe from the Tribal Council. Aside from winning the Immunity, JC was able to see the full video message of his girlfriend and got a five-minute call to her.

JC picked Cris and Marlon when Paolo asked him to choose two of his tribemates, who will also get to see the full video message of their loved ones. Marlon cried like a baby upon seeing the video message of his girlfriend.

Cris, on the other hand, won last week's Reward Challenge (spear throwing). As the winner of the challenge, Cris got to decide which of his tribemates will eat a specific menu. Naturally, Cris chose the most delicious—steak and rice with a bottle of softdrinks—while he gave Marlon a tamarind with a glass of softdrink, and Charisse a plate of salt with softdrink.

Other highlights from last week's episode:

Cris and Kaye plotted against Rob Sy and Zita Ortiga. Cris suggested to Kaye to make up a story that he is courting her in an effort to confuse the other castaways

Marlon and Cris had an argument over the "Jarakay soup." Marlon wanted to add another cup of salt water to the halaan soup, but Cris stopped him. After that, a verbal tussle ensued.

At the Tribal Council, last week's castoff Vern Domingo, who looked gorgeous in her outfit, made a mind-boggling entrance when she posed in front of the remaining castaways. Rob literally dropped from his chair upon seeing Vern while the other castaways looked confused. Back at the camp, the castaways made fun of Vern's behavior.

Meanwhile, in tonight's episode, Rob won the Reward Challenge. His prize is 50,000 pesos cash that will be sent to his family. Nanay Zita came so close to winning, but she was not able to count correctly the five necklaces that were needed to complete the challenge.

As the latest castaway, Marlon is scheduled to make his round of interviews on different GMA-7 shows this week. Knowing that he is "the most hated" castaway of Survivor Philippines, it is interesting to find out how people will react to him and how well he will handle the anticipated animosity towards him.

- Erwin Santiago, Gmanews

Episode 51: Marlon's exit in the game

Marlon finally gets voted off... one vote coming from the crying lady - Charisse.

Apparently, Marlon changed his mind and didn't pursue his plan of hiding the flint and leaving the camp fired out. Marlon's reasoning "Ayaw kong mawalan ng kaibigan..." and he understands that life would be so much difficult without fire.

But he leaves the castaways behind with his still unrevealed "nuclear bomb"... "Pagbalik sa Maynila, doon nyo malalaman yan... "

But unlike Marlon's change of mind, the castaways are already firm on who to vote off. Charisse, after voting off Marlon, says "Di ba sinabi ko naman sa'yo before na when it's no longer working out, I will vote you off. Thank you for everything."

Aside from Char's automatic vote courtesy of the black pearl, only Cris got a vote off from Marlon. "Nakikipag-ayos na nga ako sa ibang castaways tapos inaway mo pa ako... "

Instead of receiving a black pearl, Marlon got a white pearl from Paolo. And this time, it does not carry a curse, but a wish of minus one vote. Marlon ironically, gives the blessed pearl to Charisse.

Marlon's piece of advise to his former tribemates: "Natapakan ko yung personalidad ko, pero dito, you have to do everything to reach your goal. Iwasan nyo rin yung masyadong trust sa mga tao kasi maraming two-faced eh."

And the ultimate bad boy of primetime bids farewell.

Back at the camp, it was almost pointless that Marlon didn't fire-out their site, because it was already raining when the tribemates went back. The flint is even useless when everything is wet.

After the vote-off, Charisse is on the attack on Vern's "overacting" moment during the TC. Rob says that maybe Vern was bitter after being voting off, while Kaye just lets Vern have her "moment". Most of them just laughed it off.

Meanwhile, Kaye just tries to ignore Marlon's "secret nuclear bomb"... "Hindi na ako nagpapaapekto sa mga sinasabi nya.. "

Rob's First, Zita's Almost

For the reward challenge, the castaway who wins would receive 50 thousand pesos to be sent to his/her relatives back at home. Zita clearly needs the prize this time, to the point that she said it would no longer matter as much if she wouldn't win the 3M since that reward was good enough to help her pay some debts or start a sari-sari store.

Paolo, first, narrated a local epic love story "Ang Sumpa sa Langkawi Island" - (aided by a very cool puppet/shadow show for the TV viewers).  The castaways, then would need to answer five questions correctly based on the tale to win the reward.

Zita gets to answer five stations correctly first, but she lost count and didn't realize she already won. She just needs to rush to Paolo. Her confusion lead to Rob's first win at a challenge.

Aside from the money, Rob gets coffee and blankets.

Tomorrow for the early immunity challenge:

A very physical challenge - and again, Cris with the "panghilod" moments.