From friendly showdowns to electrifying halftime performances, the energy reached an all-time high at the first-ever Viva All Star Games 2026.
The spirit of sportsmanship took center stage as Viva All Star Games 2026 made its inaugural debut at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on August 16, bringing together Viva’s brightest stars for a lively celebration of camaraderie, talent, and friendly competition.
Despite the gloomy weather, fans still flocked to the Big Dome armed with banners, cheering paraphernalia, and their loudest voices. Determined to show up for their favorite Viva stars, supporters filled the venue with energy and love from the opening moments until the final whistle.
More than a series of exhibition matches, the first-ever All Star Games became a massive gathering of Viva artists and fans. Actors, singers, and rising talents traded scripts and microphones for jerseys as they showcased their athletic sides through basketball, volleyball, and cheer dance competitions.
Clash of stars in the court
One of the biggest highlights of the games is the much-anticipated basketball duel between Team Viva Records and Team Viva One. Before tip-off, the celebrity athletes made a grand individual entrance onto the Big Dome court, drawing loud cheers from the crowd as they welcomed their favorite stars. The introductions set the tone of the exciting match up.
Headlined by actors Jairus Aquino, Gab Lagman, Wilbert Ross, Joseph Marco, and Dann Aquino. Team Viva One faced off against Team Viva Records which featured singers Adie, Arthur Nery, Migo Valid, and Jeremy G.
Just five minutes into the game, Lance Carr exited the venue after sustaining an injury, sparking concerns among fans. Later on, the actor announced in his social media account that he suffered a torn ACL, which he described as “every player’s worst nightmare.”
As the game continued, Team Viva One favored the neck-to-neck half of the game with 38-36, which kept fans on the edge of their seats in the close battle. In the final quarter, Team Viva Records shifted the momentum, showcasing an impressive defensive display. They built a 10-point cushion in the last minutes of the game, sealing their victory.
Xerenade’s Migo Valid was named as the first-ever basketball MVP of Viva All Star Games. He also earned a spot in the mythical five alongside Gab Lagman, Jeremy G., Jairus Aquino, and Adie, recognizing their excellent performance throughout the game.
Face off at the net
Viva actresses also showcased their court charisma in a thrilling volleyball match. Bringing the heat to the Big Dome, Team VMX, led by Angeli Khang, Robb Guinto, Christine Bermas, and Sahara Bernales, faced off against Team Viva One’s Nicole Omillo, Sara Joe, Rafa Victorino, and Ayana Quizon.
Team Viva One dominates the first set with 25-12, powered by 13 service aces in a landslide opening victory. The second set intensified with both teams trading points in a back-and-forth battle, making the crowd roar for every point. After a close fight that pulled the score to 30, Team Viva One claimed the set with 32-30, clinching the win.
For their standout performances, the mythical six featured Priscilla Villar, Anne Lopez, Denise Esteban, Vladia Disuanco, Christy Imperial, and Edcell Santiago, who was also named as the match MVP.
All-out energy on the floor
Aside from the ball games, the cheer dance competition adds more fun and energy to the event. Two teams go head-to-head, owning the entire floor with overflowing energy, teamwork, and creativity.
Team Viva Records festive enters and gets the audience cheering. Featuring Tomas and Jao of Alamat, Mia Bela, Aubrey Caraan, and CJ Villavicencio, delivering daring stunts and lifts. The team opening chant and dynamic dance sequences highlighted their dedication proving that “TEAM VIVA RECORDS, MAY BITAW!”
As the competition resumes, Team Viva One executed a wise, powerful routine and sharp formations, led by Bea Binene, Angela Muji, Rhen Escaño, and Heaven Peralejo. The clean dance floor and synchronize movements emphasized their unity. In the end, the team’s high energy performance prevailed, hailing them as the champion of the cheer dance battle.
Where sports and entertainment collide
The fun and excitement are not limited to the sports matches; special performances and appearances keep the entertainment going between games. Before the main events started, the preshow hosted by CJ Villavicencio set the excitement for fans with a series of interactive games.
P-pop girl group RAYA kicks off the game with an electrifying performance, followed by rising OPM artists Amytis, Migs, UNO, Carlo Mendoza, and Dana serenading the fans with their songs.
GAT took over the stage as they performed their latest single, “Mine,” bringing kilig and charming energy. The cast of the upcoming musical Bongga Ka ‘Day! also performed during half-time, led by Sam Concepcion, Jeff Moses, and Anthony Rosaldo.
Beyond the scores and victories, the Viva All Star Games 2026 is a celebration of the community that Viva has built through the years. Bringing artists, fans, and friends together in unforgettable events. While the rivalry remained intense on the floor, at the end, it’s still a friendly match rather than a fierce competition.
Pop Journal would like to thank VAA Live for the media invite to witness this spectacular event.
Photos: Charie Navarro
