The Power of PIPOL: Face of the Year Adults Final 20 Revealed
In the world of Philippine entertainment, the fans hold the ultimate power to turn rising stars into household names. PIPOL mgZn and Village Pipol celebrate this unique bond by presenting the official Final 20 for the Face of the Year Adult.
This award recognizes the icons who dominated social media feeds, television, big screens, and streaming charts throughout the past year.
After a nationwide search, we finally identified the twenty men and twenty women who embody today’s generation. These finalists survived massive voting rounds to secure their place in the 7th VP Choice Awards finals.
Starting January 15, 2026, the power returns to the fans to decide who will claim the ultimate crown.
Leading Men: Adult Final 20
BATCH 1
- 1. Rabin Angeles
Rabin Angeles continues to rise as one of Viva Artists Agency’s most promising young actors. His breakthrough as Yuri Hanamitchi in Ang Mutya ng Section E has garnered him success.
Following this, he starred as the lead campus heartthrob in Seducing Drake Palma. He is also attached to the Philippine adaptation of the South Korean film A Werewolf Boy.
- 2. Will Ashley
Will Ashley gained recognition after appearing as a housemate on Pinoy Big Brother (PBB).
Before PBB, he started acting at a young age and appeared in different television projects. His early career influenced his later success in series like Prima Donnas and Unbreak My Heart. His notable filmography includes Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entries, such as Balota, Love You So Bad, and Bar Boys 2.
- 3. Lance Carr
Lance Carr first entered the public eye as a Pinoy Big Brother: Otso housemate. He then expanded his acting portfolio with appearances in the hit youth series He’s Into Her. Some of his notable shows include Dirty Linen and Beach Bros. Recently, he landed a lead role in the 2025 series “Avenues of the Diamond,”
- 4. Brent Manalo
Brent Manalo first built his following as a popular content creator and social media influencer. He made his acting debut through “Ampalaya Chronicles” and later appeared in “Hayskul Crush.” Recently, he reached a significant career milestone after winning the PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition. Brent is now preparing for his role in the mystery drama series The Secrets of Hotel 88.
- 5. Donny Pangilinan
Donny Pangilinan started being a VJ for Myx Channel and made several appearances on ABS-CBN shows. He later starred in the hit youth series He’s Into Her, which gained him wider recognition. He then led the primetime series Can’t Buy Me Love and currently stars in the series Roja.
BATCH 2
- 1. Andres Muhlach
Andres Muhlach gained attention for his breakout performance in the hit series Ang Mutya ng Section E, making him one of the industry’s rising actors. He stars in the romantic film Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para kay Luna. Moreover, he prepares to play the iconic role of Adie in the 2026 theatrical production of Bagets: The Musical.
- 2. Gab Lagman
Gab Lagman played the role of Sevi in the University Series title Chasing in the Wild. Alongside that, he recently joined the main cast of the Philippine adaptation of the international thriller film titled Bad Genius. And is currently in the TV series “Golden Scenery of Tomorrow.”
- 3. River Joseph
River Joseph finished as one of the finalists in PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition. He stars in the series “The Secrets of Hotel 88” and appeared in the digital film adaptation of “The Four Bad Boys and Me” as Charles Gonzales.
- 4. JM Ibarra
JM Ibarra transitioned from a PBB Gen 11 housemate to an actor in the iWantTFC series titled Ghosting. He also appeared in the lead role for the film Child No. 82, and joined the cast of Shake, Rattle & Roll: Evil Origins.
- 5. Stell Ajero
Stell Ajero is a member of the globally recognized P-pop group SB19. He also pursues a solo music career, releasing his EP Room. Stell has served as a coach on The Voice Generations and The Voice Kids Philippines.
BATCH 3
- 1. KD Estrada
KD Estrada first captured the hearts of many viewers as a housemate in PBB: Kumunity Season 10. He later showcased his versatility through musical theater in Walang Aray. He also appeared on the blockbuster film Meet, Greet & Bye as Young Tupe.
- 2. Justin De Dios
Justin De Dios is known as a member of the P-pop group SB19 and has also built a solo career. He gained attention with his chart-topping single “surreal.” He continues to perform and appear in music and entertainment projects.
- 3. Darren Espanto
Darren Espanto released his album Ikaw Pa Rin after his successful acting run in Can’t Buy Me Love. Alongside his music career, he continues to be a regular host on It’s Showtime and a mainstay ASAP performer. Darren is known as the industry’s “Total Performer” for his exceptional skills in both singing and high-energy dancing.
- 4. Ethan David
Ethan David is a member of the P-pop group GAT. He gained acting recognition in “Ang Mutya ng Section E.” He also appeared in the series “Seducing Drake Palma” and “For The Love: Ligaya.”
- 5. Jairus Aquino
Jairus Aquino first became known as a child actor on the Philippine television, starring in shows like “Super Inggo”. He recently starred in “Bad Genius: The Series” and “Golden Scenery of Tomorrow.”
BATCH 4
- 1. JM Dela Cerna
JM Dela Cerna rose to prominence after winning Tawag ng Tanghalan Duets in 2023. He later joined Your Face Sounds Familiar. Additionally, he remains a mainstay on ASAP as part of the “JMielle” duo, alongside releasing solo music.
- 2. Wilbert Ross
Wilbert Ross starred in several romantic comedies under Viva, including Working Boys 2: Choose Your Papa. He also starred in “Hello, Love, Goodbye” as the older brother of Joy (Kathryn Bernardo). Beyond his acting career, Wilbert also appeared on Pinoy Boyband Superstar and Tawag ng Tanghalan, showcasing his talent in singing and performing.
- 3. Iñigo Jose
Iñigo Jose officially joined Star Magic in 2025 as one of the promising faces of the generation. He played as Jabbas Cheng in the action-drama series “Roja.” He also participated in the reality show PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition 2.0.
- 4. Jerome Ponce
Jerome Ponce gained recognition after appearing in the well-loved daytime series Be Careful With My Heart. Also, he recently appeared in the “University Series” adaptation, “Safe Skies.” Additionally, he starred in the historical fantasy drama “I Love You Since 1892.”
- 5. JC Dacillo (AJAA)
JC Dacillo (of AJAA) is the main dancer and lead vocalist of the P-pop group, AJAA. Before being an official member of the group, JC participated in the survival show Top Class.
Leading Ladies: Adult Final 20
BATCH 1
- 1. Angela Muji
Angela Muji became recognized as Rakki San Diego in the digital series Ang Mutya ng Section E. She also recently starred in the series Seducing Drake Palma alongside actor Rabin Angeles. Additionally, she will lead the Philippine film adaptation of the South Korean hit movie A Werewolf Boy.
- 2. Aubrey Caraan
Aubrey Caraan recently joined the cast of the live adaptation of Hell University. She previously captivated audiences in the hit series Avenues of the Diamond. Aubrey also showcased her versatility in other projects, such as Chasing in the Wild and Sem Break.
- 3. Bianca De Vera
Bianca De Vera completed a run as a housemate in the PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition. She first gained recognition in 2 Good 2 Be True and earned an MMFF nomination for the film Love You So Bad. She currently stars in the series The Secrets of Hotel 88.
- 4. Mika Salamanca
Mika Salamanca first established being a successful content creator and vlogger before entering mainstream showbiz. She recently emerged as the first-ever Big Winner duo of PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition, alongside Brent Manalo. Mika made her big screen debut as Bea Santos in the MMFF entry Call Me Mother. She also joined the Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre. Currently, she stars in the mystery-drama series The Secrets of Hotel 88 with her fellow housemates.
- 5. Anji Salvacion
Anji Salvacion acted in the popular thriller series Linlang. She further appeared as the lead character in the movie The Four Bad Boys and Me. Anji first became known as the Big Winner of PBB: Kumunity Season 10.
BATCH 2
- 1. Ashtine Olviga
Ashtine Olviga became a massive star after playing Jay-jay in the series Ang Mutya ng Section E. She also led the romantic film Minamahal: 100 Bulaklak Para Kay Luna with actor Andres Muhlach. Most recently, she starred in the 2025 MMFF entry, Manila’s Finest.
- 2. Hyacinth Collado
Hyacinth Callado gained many fans for her role as Elyse in the hit series Chasing in the Wild. She joined the main cast of the Philippine adaptation of Bad Genius. She also acted in the popular series Safe Skies.
- 3. Kollete Madelo
Kollete Madelo built a very loyal fan base during her successful run on the reality show PBB Gen 11. She launched her debut music album titled SAYAW to follow her dreams as a singer. She also appeared in What Lies Beneath and appeared as a guest on several ABS-CBN programs.
- 4. Kylie Padilla
Kylie Padilla is well-loved for her strong acting in the GMA sports-drama titled Bolera. She recently starred as Gina in the drama series My Father’s Wife. Kylie also reprised her iconic role as Amihan in the Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre. She remains one of the premier leading ladies of the GMA Network.
- 5. Aiah Arceta
Aiah Arceta is a member of the famous P-POP girl group BINI who sang the hit song “Pantropiko.” She recently made history as part of the first Filipino group to be included in the 2026 Coachella lineup. Aiah also launched her own advocacy program, AiahDvocacy, to help various communities in need.
BATCH 3
- 1. Mikha Lim
Mikha Lim is a member of the record-breaking P-pop girl group BINI. She made her acting debut as the character Elle Luna in the series He’s Into Her. She will also make history with her group as the first Filipino act to perform at the Coachella festival.
- 2. Riva Quenery
Rive Quenery is a beloved actress and one of the country’s most successful celebrity vloggers with millions of subscribers. She appeared in the hit series The House Arrest of Us. Riva also appeared in Dear God as Yna. Additionally, she successfully balances her acting career with being a hands-on mother and a successful vlogger.
- 3. Atasha Muhlach
Atasha Muhlach made a big splash as the lead star in the Philippine adaptation of Bad Genius. She also starred in the film Everyone Knows Every Juan. Atasha remains a beloved host on the iconic noontime variety shows Eat Bulaga, between her various acting commitments. She also played the role of Atasha in the family sitcom Da Pers Family.
- 4. Francine Diaz
Francine Diaz became known as Cassie in the iconic series Kadenang Ginto. She recently appeared in the 2024 MMFF romantic fantasy film My Future You. Francine also starred in the drama series Sins of the Father. Currently, she is preparing for her next lead role, She Who Must Not Be Named.
- 5 Kyline Alcantara
Kyline Alcantara played the feisty character Joanna in the series Shining Inheritance. She also showed her high-fashion style by opening the Chris Nick Spring/Summer 2025 collection at New York Fashion Week. She also starred in the Filipino drama Beauty Empire. Kyline is known for being a versatile actress who can easily transition between playing heroes and villains.
BATCH 4
- 1. Marielle Montellano
Marielle Montellano currently competes as a celebrity performer in the 2025 season of Your Face Sounds Familiar. She recently impressed judges with her transformation into Ariana Grande. Marielle also released her debut album JMielle in Love. She also performs every Sunday on ASAP as a member of the New Gen Divas.
- 2. Bea Binene
Bea Binene played the lead character Avianna “Via” Diaz in the Golden Scenery of Tomorrow. She also played Emerald in the series Totoy Bato. Bea first joined Univerkada as Via in The Rain in España.
- 3. Krissha Viaje
Krissha Viaje is also in the cast of Golden Scenery of Tomorrow. She earned a nomination at the Seoul International Drama Awards for the Outstanding Asian Star. She also acted in the series Mga Batang Riles and Para Sa Isa’t Isa.
- 4. Belle Mariano
Belle Mariano played the iconic character Caroline Tiu in the popular series Can’t Buy Me Love. She also starred as Geri Facundo in the family drama film Meet, Greet & Bye. Moreover, she made an appearance on the morning news show Good Day LA to promote the film.
- 5. Cassy Legaspi
Cassy Legaspi played the character Eve in the MMFF entry Rekonek with her family. She currently acts in Hating Kapatid. She remains an influential host, actress, and brand ambassador for numerous top fashion labels.
Support Your Favorite Stars
The competition for the Face of the Year Adult reaches its peak as the final voting window opens this month. Fans can cast their votes daily via the VP Choice Awards App and Web Voting Portal from January 15 to February 14, 2026.
The results will follow a balanced scoring system:
50% from PIPOL’s public vote and 50% from the Panel of Experts and the Editorial Team. This ensures the fairness and credibility of both audience support and experts’ insights.
This final push determines which three stars from each category will stand on the grand stage this April.
Beyond the prestige, the Top 3 will receive the Black Obelisk Trophy and a feature in our magazine celebrating their achievement. Every vote serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of these incredible artists.
Stay updated with the latest news by following PIPOL mgZn on different social media platforms @pipolmgzn. For more information on the nominees and the 2026 ceremony, visit www.vpchoiceawards.com.
The VP Choice Awards App powered by Choicely, a globally renowned Voting App developer is ready for download on the App Store and Google Play. Secure your access now and prepare to support your top picks during the voting period.
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