Trending! Filipino Stars Join Viral '2026 is the New 2016' Online Challenge
A fun and nostalgic online trend has taken Filipino social media by storm, with celebrities and netizens alike joining the viral '2026 is the New 2016' challenge. The trend, which started gaining momentum in January 2026, sees participants posting throwback comparisons — looking back at where they were in 2016 versus who they are today in 2026, a decade later. Prominent Filipino stars including Donny Pangilinan and Janine Gutierrez were among the early celebrity adopters, sending the challenge into viral overdrive.
Ang '2026 is the New 2016' challenge ay isang masaya at makulay na paraan para ipagdiwang ang sampung taon ng personal na paglago at tagumpay. Participants typically share side-by-side photos from 2016 and 2026, accompanied by captions reflecting on how much they and the world have changed over the decade. For many millennials and older Gen Z Filipinos, 2016 holds a special place — it was the year of hit songs, memorable movies, iconic love teams, and defining cultural moments that shaped their youth.
Donny Pangilinan, one of the Philippines' most beloved young actors, posted his version of the challenge showing a noticeably more mature and accomplished version of himself compared to his 2016 teen self. Janine Gutierrez, known for her effortless charm and acting talent, also joined in with a post that had fans gushing over how gracefully she has grown over the years. Their posts racked up millions of likes, shares, and comments within hours, demonstrating the enormous reach Filipino celebrities have on social media.
The challenge quickly spread beyond celebrities, with ordinary Filipinos flooding TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook with their own versions. Some took a humorous angle — comparing 2016 college student struggles with 2026 professional life problems. Others went the emotional route, honoring how much they've grown through hardships, relationships, and personal milestones. Napaka-relatable ng trend na ito kasi halos lahat ng Pilipino na millennial at Gen Z ay may sariling '2016 story' na gustong ibahagi.
Online trends like this one offer a window into collective Filipino identity and the way social media has become deeply woven into everyday culture. What makes the '2026 is the New 2016' challenge particularly special is its inclusivity — anyone can participate, regardless of fame or following. It's a celebration of survival, growth, and the simple joy of looking back and realizing how far you've come. Kung hindi ka pa sumasali, ano pa ang hinihintay mo? Sumali na at ibahagi ang iyong sariling '2016 to 2026' journey!
Source: ABS-CBN Entertainment
