“Kapamilya, Deal or No Deal” host Luis Manzano opened the show's July 26 episode by interviewing several Lucky Stars. During the segment, he asked actress Maui Taylor to list the qualities she looks for in a future partner. Maui began by saying she prefers a man who isn't overly attractive. Veteran comedian Long Mejia quickly interrupted, jokingly assuming she was referring to him. Amused by his assumption, Maui teased Long about his bangs and quipped, “Long, wala ka sa range ko ngayon nakapiluka ka eh.”
WATCH: Maui Taylor, PINUKSA si Long | Kapamilya Deal Or No Deal
Shortly after, Lucky Star Kim Rodriguez was named the evening’s celebrity player after the Lucky Wheel landed on her assigned briefcase, number four. In an introduction video, Kim reflected on her journey in the entertainment industry, from starting as bit player to landing her first lead role as a girl with a twin snake. Looking back on the challenges she faced early in her career, Kim recalled appearing on television as an extra and even sleeping by the roadside while pursuing her dreams.
WATCH: Kim Rodriguez, ikinuwento ang showbiz journey niya | Kapamilya Deal Or No Deal
Eyeing the ₱1 million jackpot on the board, Kim shared that she hoped to use the prize money to help three street children recover after a fire destroyed some of their belongings. Of all the briefcases she had been assigned throughout the game, briefcase number 4 held a special place in her heart, prompting her to keep it until the end.
Kim began by opening briefcase number 14, which she chose because it matched her birth date. The first round got off to a promising start after she revealed the ₱100 cash prize, with only the ₱100,000 amount serving as an early six-digit setback. Although she eliminated ₱125,000 in the second round, she quickly regained momentum by uncovering the ₱5, ₱400, and ₱5,000 cash prizes.
The third round proved even more favorable as Kim revealed the ₱50, ₱200, and ₱10,000 amounts. However, her strong run soon took a turn for the worse. She was left stunned after consecutively eliminating high-value amounts from the board, including ₱150,000, ₱250,000, and ₱500,000.
By the seventh round, the actress erupted in celebration after finally eliminating the ₱1 amount from the board, avoiding the fate of becoming the game show's newest "Pisonaryo." Sensing an opportunity to test her resolve, the Banker presented Kim with an offer of ₱170,500.
Faced with a tough decision, Kim chose to secure a substantial amount for the three street children she hoped to help and accepted the Banker's offer. At that point, only the ₱10, ₱25, and ₱1 million amounts remained on the board. The Banker later revealed that he would have offered ₱555,500 had Kim eliminated the ₱25 amount in the following round.
Although she admitted feeling slightly disappointed, Kim was stunned to discover that the ₱1 million jackpot had been inside her chosen briefcase all along. Still grateful for her winnings, she thanked the show and the Banker, saying, “Hindi ko man nakuha ‘yung 1M, pero malaking bagay po ‘yung ₱170,500.”
Catch more fun and exciting moments on "Kapamilya Deal Or No Deal," airing Saturdays and Sundays at 7:30 PM on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, Kapamilya Channel, TV5, A2Z, and Kapamilya Online Live (KOL), or stream anytime on iWant!