Meet the 18 castaways of Survivor Philippines

GMA-7 has finally revealed the identities of the 18 castaways (originally 16) that will compete for the three million pesos cash prize—tax free—in the first-ever Survivor Philippines, hosted by Paolo Bediones. The 18 castaways, nine males and nine females, were chosen out of more than 43,000 Survivor fans and aspiring castaways who auditioned nationwide. These people from diverse backgrounds—including a lingerie model, a labandera, a yaya, a waiter, a call center agent, a driver, a basketball player—were flown to Koh Tarutao island, also known as the Devil's Island, in Thailand to embark on their biggest challenge yet. The 18 castaways stayed in the Devil's Island for more than 39 days. Meet the 18 castaways of Survivor Philippines: Kristina "Kaye" Alipio, lingerie model Leona Rica "Nikki" Dacullo, call center agent Jervy "Patani" Daño, 20, babysitter Veronica "Vern" Domingo, 29, taekwondo coach Vevherly Gador, 20, student Chevyline "Chev" Macias, 26 years old, former GRO Zita Ortiga, 46, laundrywoman Maria Nona "Niña" Ortiz, designer/wellness coach Anna Charisse Yacapin, 26, product officer Marlon Carmen, 30, waiter Crisanto "Cris" Cartagenas, company driver Emerson Dino, 31, technician John Anthony Lopez, 27, auto mechanic/model Raymund Francis "Kiko" Rustia, model Cesar "Gigit" Sulit, 48, web designer/mountaineer Robert Vincent "Rob" Sy, sales officer John Carlo "JC" Tiuseco, 23, basketball player Reynaldo "Jace" Chanco Flores, Jr., Hunky Martial Arts/Gym Instructor The 18 castways were initially divided into two groups: Naak and Jarakay, which means snake and crocodile, respectively, in Thai language. Every three days, they will battle for reward and immunity. On the third day, one will be eliminated until only two or three castaways are left. From them the Jury, composed of voted-out castaways, will determine who will win the three million pesos cash prize and the title of the first Pinoy Sole Survivor. Survivor Philippines will be aired nightly on GMA-7 after Ako Si Kim Samsoon starting September 15. - Philippine Entertainment Portal