In a moment that set social media on fire, young actress Xyriel Manabat made headlines after a playful but emotionally charged remark to fellow “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition” housemate AZ Martinez. During a livestream clip that has since gone viral, the actress turned to AZ and said with a mix of sass and sincerity: “Ako lang ki-kiss mo, ha?” — translated as “Only kiss me, okay?”

The line may have seemed spontaneous, but to fans and followers of the duo dubbed “AzRiel,” it was a lightning bolt that confirmed long-standing speculation: there’s more to their on-screen chemistry than meets the eye.

The video, taken during a casual fan interaction online, quickly gained traction on platforms like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook. Netizens immediately responded with a frenzy of memes, reaction videos, and passionate fan theories about the nature of their relationship.

Xyriel, best known for her childhood roles in teleseryes and her return to the spotlight through “PBB,” has always captivated audiences with her authenticity and wit. AZ Martinez, meanwhile, built a loyal following thanks to his boy-next-door charm, quiet depth, and creative pursuits inside the PBB house.

Their tandem slowly but steadily became a fan favorite, thanks to genuine moments of affection, late-night talks, and protective gestures toward one another. While both have remained tight-lipped about any real-life romance, Xyriel’s recent quip added undeniable fuel to the fire.

Thousands of fans flooded the comment section with reactions:

“WHAT DID SHE JUST SAY?? Did Xyriel just claim AZ?? I’M SCREAMING!!”
“If this isn’t confirmation, I don’t know what is. AzRiel is real!”
“She said it with so much confidence. Queen behavior!”

Others took a more analytical route, dissecting AZ’s facial expression during the clip — a visibly shy smile and a slight blush that only added to the tension.

While neither Xyriel nor AZ has officially confirmed a relationship, insiders say that the two have remained close post-PBB. Joint appearances, matching accessories spotted by eagle-eyed fans, and playful exchanges have kept the “AzRiel” ship afloat.

Some netizens also speculate that Xyriel’s statement could have been made jokingly, meant to rile up fans or tease AZ. However, in showbiz, even jokes often carry a kernel of truth — and the fans are more than willing to believe it.

Despite the buzz, both stars remain focused on their careers. Xyriel is reportedly in talks for a lead role in an upcoming romantic drama series, while AZ is set to launch a digital mini-series on a major streaming platform. When asked in previous interviews about romance, Xyriel said she prioritizes “growth, passion, and protecting peace,” though she “won’t close her doors” to love.