Did the new generation of Hotbabes just declare war on the originals?
VMX Hotbabes member Zsara Laxamana has ignited a heated comparison between her rising girl group and the iconic Viva Hotbabes after boldly declaring: “I think we’re better.”
The former Mocha Girls performer delivered the controversial answer when entertainment reporters asked what separates the VMX Hotbabes from the legendary group that dominated the Philippine sexy-entertainment scene more than two decades ago.
“Difference? I’ll say this so we will feel pressured and motivated. I think we’re better,” Zsara said.
The remark immediately raised eyebrows, especially among fans who grew up watching original Viva Hotbabes members Maui Taylor, Katya Santos, Andrea del Rosario, Sheree, and Gwen Garci.
Formed in 2003, the Viva Hotbabes became one of the country’s most recognizable female groups and gained massive popularity through their provocative performances and novelty hit “Bulaklak.”
More than 20 years later, VMX introduced its own generation of Hotbabes composed of Zsara, Ataska, Christy Imperial, Rhian Rivera, Skye Gonzaga, and Micaella Raz.
The new group is now trying to make its mark with its debut single, “Jugjog.”
But Zsara’s fearless comparison threatened to overshadow the group’s launch, forcing her to explain that she was not trying to insult the women who paved the way for them.
‘I DIDN’T MEAN IT NEGATIVELY’
Asked whether she feared offending the original Viva Hotbabes, Zsara clarified that her statement was meant to challenge her group—not diminish their predecessors.
“It wasn’t meant in a negative way,” she said. “We’re doing our best to become better because we know that our ates are really talented.”
According to Zsara, the VMX Hotbabes feel enormous pressure because they know audiences—and possibly the original members themselves—are watching closely to see what the new group can deliver.
“We need to work even harder so they won’t be disappointed in us,” she explained.
She also revealed that the group follows a strict fitness and performance regimen as it attempts to live up to the Hotbabes name.
“We really work out. All of us are expected to be toned, so every member has to be disciplined,” Zsara said.
She admitted that she expected criticism after making the bold declaration.
“If people bash me because of what I said, I’m ready,” she added.
FANS MAY SEE SHADE—BUT ZSARA INSISTS IT WAS RESPECT
Despite the controversy, Zsara repeatedly referred to the original members as her “ates,” emphasizing that she respects the women who came before her.
She also revealed that she was a genuine Viva Hotbabes fan growing up.
“They were really my idols,” she said. “When I was younger, I danced to their songs, and I even had a CD of their music.”
For Zsara, becoming part of the new VMX Hotbabes feels like a full-circle moment.
“I’m happy because now it’s our turn. I’m now one of those performing as part of the new generation,” she said.
Her explanation, however, may not completely silence the debate.
For longtime fans, the Viva Hotbabes are not merely another girl group. They remain a defining symbol of early-2000s pop culture, with personalities and songs that continue to be remembered decades later.
The VMX Hotbabes, meanwhile, are still building their identity and proving that they can create a legacy beyond inheriting a famous name.
NEW HOTBABES, OLD FORMULA?
Zsara’s connection to the original group does not end with the VMX Hotbabes branding.
She and Queenie de Mesa also host the VMX magazine program “Ang Muling Pagbukaka,” whose title plays on the famous “Bubuka ang bulaklak, papasok ang reyna” line associated with the Viva Hotbabes hit “Bulaklak.”
The show also features scenes from sexy films starring original Hotbabes members, including Maui, Katya, Andrea, Sheree, and Gwen.
Directed by Bobby Bonifacio Jr., the program openly draws from the nostalgia and popularity of the original group while attempting to introduce its performers to a younger audience.
Zsara said she would also like to direct a film or magazine-show adaptation inspired by “Jugjog” should she be given the opportunity.
But before the new Hotbabes can claim that they are truly “better,” they may first have to answer the question now dividing fans:
Can the VMX Hotbabes create their own cultural moment—or are they simply dancing in the shadow of the originals?
