Kuya of Pinoy Big Brother Speaks Out for the First Time

For nearly two decades, viewers of Pinoy Big Brother have known "Kuya" only by his voice. But just recently, in a rare and surprising moment, the elusive figure behind the iconic Big Brother voice gave an exclusive interview, something fans never thought would happen.

Kuya, the ever-watchful presence inside the famous PBB house, sat down (virtually) with veteran journalist Rico Hizon. With 18 seasons behind it, including the ongoing PBB Celebrity Collab Edition, the show has grown into a cultural touchstone since it launched in 2005.

During the interview, Kuya revealed that he's constantly tuned in, saying he's always present for his housemates and never truly at rest. His role, as it turns out, goes beyond assigning tasks. He’s a silent guide, watching over everything that happens inside the house.

When asked how he chooses housemates, Kuya shared an interesting insight. He looks beyond individual traits and tries to see how people might work together as a group. “It’s not just about who they are alone, but how they’ll connect with others,” he explained.

This human approach continues with the advice he gives. Kuya said he draws from each person’s unique background, emotions, and what they need in the moment. As for the tasks? Those are crafted with purpose. Each one is designed to test character, heart, and teamwork.

One big lesson Kuya observed from this season’s housemates is the value of pakikisama, knowing how to live with others, understanding different personalities, and accepting one another’s differences.

When the mood in the house gets heavy, Kuya gently reminds the housemates why they entered the house in the first place. It’s about staying grounded and remembering their purpose. And just in case you thought he was always serious, he added with a laugh, “I’m not a robot, you know. I’m not always serious.”

He also shared what he hopes to leave behind: that his house remains a place open to anyone, a space where change and growth are possible.

Of course, one big mystery still lingers, who is really behind Kuya’s voice?

For years, fans have speculated that it’s Laurenti Dyogi, the well-known ABS-CBN executive and current head of TV Production and Star Magic. But Dyogi, also lovingly referred to as "Direk Lauren," has denied it multiple times, even during an interview with former PBB host Toni Gonzaga in 2021.

He did admit something interesting though. In the early days of the show, he was deeply involved, especially when controversies surfaced. Creatively, he was very much in control, so it’s no surprise people notice similarities between his tone and Kuya’s.

“Maybe Kuya learned to mimic me,” he joked. “In the beginning, I was breathing this show every single day, it was like my baby.”

Whether or not he’s the voice, there’s no denying Direk Lauren's imprint is all over the show. But as for the real identity of Kuya? That mystery remains locked behind the walls of the PBB house, just as it should be.