Episode 12: Gear-rian

Everything rises and falls on leadership - that was what we've been seeing in the past few challenges. Nagar consistently performs as a team - John so far never fails to lead affirmatively. Sar Mayee is struggling. Magan, as we all know, has leadership woes and is beginning to shatter.

The Gear Puzzle Challenge last night was actually anybody's game. Any tribe has the mental capacity to win it, regardless of any one's built. It's a matter of taking commands in stride and executing properly. Too bad, panic has gotten too early for Sar Mayee that cost them the game. Karen, who self-proclaimed her expertise in puzzle solving, confidently assumed the frontman's role, but caught herself 'puzzled' right at the start and eventually got lost. The rest of Sar Mayee were left in disbelief as they just stare at their mate who couldn't figure out the right strategy, while Ervic and Aubrey, who sat out the challenge, tried to provide instructions. Akihiro evidently lost his 'kumpiyansa' with Karen. Who wouldn't? If what's at stake is RICE - carbs man! San ka ba galing, Gina?

Magan, which selected Mico to assemble the gear puzzle, finished second and were able to save ample amount of rice for their tribe. They also got to take back 3 items from those that were stolen on their camp. Good for them they were able to execute faster than Aira's tribe. Mykah's non-participation could have actually helped - the Bubble Gangster has the tendency to instill panic. The sultry Solenn continues to got me glued on the set

Nagar, which finished first has got to take back everything that were stolen from their camp (Michelle's bikini included), plus more rice as they were the earliest to prevent it from draining. Their cohesive system is just so impressive.

Meanwhile, Ian should realize that he actually holds the greatest power over at Nagar tribe. He has all the power to dissolve the Michelle-John romance, err, alliance and stay put at the latter part of the game. But would that really matter? If Nagar continues the winning streak, chances are, they will all be brought til the merger , and the numbers will change power.

Does Karen's mediocre performance put her in danger over at Sar Mayee? I think the girls' alliance is still intact and their target remains the pa-girl.