For the first time in Pinoy Big Brother history, I shed a tear for a housemate who went out of the house. (Then I hid quickly behind the pillows before somebody notices that I’m crying because of freaking Gabby dela Merced)

It’s very rare that I get to like a certain housemate. Sure, for almost all of the seasons of PBB I manage to guess who’s gonna win even just two weeks into the show (and mind you, I guessed correctly each time), but I never get to really like someone inside the house. Until Gaby came.

Before PBB I only knew of a Gaby dela Merced who’s a race car driver. My friends would endlessly talk about her, but some would say that she’s not that likeable.

When I saw her in the PBB house, I fell in love at once. (Well, not that kind of falling in love) Here’s a racer chick who kicks major ass who went out of her comfort zone (she’s already made a name in the racing industry) just to get her life back on track (pun not intended). Cool, for me, would exaggeratingly be an understatement.

When faced with the dilemma between choosing to stay inside the house or going out to pursue her dreams, I almost believed she would choose to stay inside the house. I was so sure she’d pick the house instead of going to the States because the PBB experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I was so sure she’d pick the house (and secretly prayed she did) because I was so selfish I wanted to see her even more. She’s strong, but can get broken at times. She’s tough, but always there’s a soft spot. She stands by her principles, but willingly obeys if the need arises. I adore her. I idolize her.

And so I was semi-crushed when she made the decision to leave. I thought it was a bad decision, that she let down thousands (or even millions!) of her new fans.

But I neglected the fact that Gaby didn’t want fame for herself, she wanted fame for the country. She dreamed of racing internationally to trumpet the Filipino pride around the world. She wanted to pursue fame not for herself, but for others. Selfless. I’m left in awe.

So to Gaby, even if I knew you wouldn’t win anyway but still wanted you to stay, thanks for a little over a month’s worth of inspiring people. May you continue to be strong as you always have! Reach for the stars, make us proud! =)

*photo from obphoto.us