GMA Network’s The Clash has always been a battleground for talented singers, but its 2025 season just upped the ante in the best way possible.
The show’s explosive premiere on June 8 introduced the Clashbackers—a powerhouse lineup of twelve returning contenders from past seasons, each hungry for redemption and ready to reclaim their shot at glory.
This season’s Clashbackers include Vilmark, Renz Robosa, Jennifer Maravilla, Arabelle Dela Cruz, Nef Medina, Lyra, Bea, Liana Castillo, Zyrene Ciervo, Allain Maristela Gatdula, Tombi Romulo, and Jong Madaliday.
This twist is a game-changer according to Clash Masters Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz.
“This is the biggest Clashback that will happen in all seasons of The Clash. This is going to happen for the first time for us to have this kind of showdown,” Julie told Manila Standard Entertainment.
Co-host Rayver echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the heightened stakes: “The competition is more intense because we have the more experienced Clashers, but we also have our new blood, the new Clashers that might pull big surprises.”
They clarified that this second chance is no easy win. The mix of raw new talent and battle-tested veterans creates a “perfect storm.” The newcomers must bring their A-game to stand out, while The Clashbackers have to prove they’ve evolved enough to dominate.
With judges Christian Bautista, AiAi delas Alas, and Lani Misalucha setting a higher bar than ever, mere vocal prowess won’t be enough. As Julie noted, “The Clashers need to convince the audience and the judges… that they’re deserving of that spot in the finals, especially because our judges are much stricter this season.”
Rayver added that creativity is key: “You need to show the panel that you’re different from the other contestants. In a competition where every note counts, the ability to reinvent while staying vocally flawless will separate the frontrunners from the pack.”
The Clash 2025 airs every Sunday at 7:15 p.m. on GMA Network.
