MANILA, Philippines - A jeepney driver’s son. A governor’s daughter. A nurse. A vintage dressmaker. A songwriter. A band vocalist. An OFW’s son. A call center agent. A pastor’s daughter. A bank employee. An Iskolar ng Bayan.
They are some of those who have made it to the Top 24 of the GMA 7 reality
talent search, “Pinoy Idol.”
Judge Jolina Magdangal describes the Top 24 finalists, introduced on the show last night, as a diverse bunch.
If the list were likened to a buffet spread, Jolina explains, the contenders would be the “different” flavors. “They’re all different, not only in terms of voice, but also on the basis of their personalities.”
Jolina clarifies that, in choosing the finalists, she and fellow judges Ogie Alcasid and Wyngard Tracy, made sure viewers would have a “wide range” to choose from.
Ogie agrees: “I’m proud of the Top 24—each one is unique. I’m sad though that [my bet] Katchry Golbin didn’t make it. But I know that her star will shine one day.”
Katchry is the blind girl who made the three judges, including hard-hitting Wyngard, shed tears during her audition in Iloilo. She faltered during the duets segment of Hell Week the gruelling workshop stage.
Although the group of 12 boys and 12 girls are distinct individuals, Wyngard says, “all are promising.” He adds that everyone “improved” during the workshop.
Host Raymond Gutierrez concurs, saying he’s impressed by the finalists’ development.
Which is precisely what Jolina is looking for in the future winner: “Someone who’s willing to evolve. Someone who has the drive and passion to win.”
Here are the Top 24:
•Gretchen Espina, 20, of Biliran, is the daughter of that province’s governor. The 20-year-old UP student auditioned at SMX Mall of Asia accompanied by a bodyguard.
•Regene Ong, 20, of Quezon City, impressed the judges by singing songs by artists as diverse as Elvis Presley and Sarah McLachlan. She stands out for her vintage dresses, which she makes herself.
•Meryl David, 23, of Bicol, is the daughter of former singer Cyril and real estate broker Elmer. She says her proudest achievement is “finishing Nursing, while singing in a band.”
•Jeni Rawolle, 20, of Manila, competed in GMA 7’s previous singing contest, “Pinoy Pop Superstar.” The Paco resident is a big fan of burlesque performer Dita Von Teese.
•Bev Ejercito, 18, of Davao, is the daughter of a company driver. She says she’s proud of “graduating from high school and winning in pageants.” Her bio says her big hair matches her big voice.
•Drizzle Muniz, 28, of Quezon City, is a professional songwriter. She penned the song, “Mr. Dedma,” for singing champ Sarah Geronimo’s album “Take Flight.”
•Vren Villaflor, 17, of Quezon City, is the daughter of a retired police officer. As a child, she joined the “Batang Kampeon” contest and topped PLDT’s “Tuklas Talino” tilt.
Pastor’s daughter
•J-Anne Bautista, 21, of Pampanga, is a student from UP Diliman. Her parents run their own businesses. She describes herself as a “shopaholic and movie fan.”
•Sue Ellen, 16, of Iloilo, is a pastor’s daughter and a beauty contest runner-up. Her sister Genevieve Cubing, who made it to the Manila round with her, was eliminated during Hell Week.
•Penelope, 16, of Batangas, is also a perennial singing contest champion. The daughter of Wilfredo and Violeta Manguihan says she’s raring to fight for her family.
•Mae Flores, 18, of Marikina, competed with Sarah Geronimo in the grand finals of “Star for a Night,” like “Philippine Idol” champ Mau Marcelo. She says she’s the “next big thing” in show biz.
•Carol Leus, 17, of Batangas, is a student in De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde. Four years ago, she joined and topped the TFC “Pop Star Search” (PPS) in Dubai.
•Rye Estrada, 28, of Iloilo, is a band vocalist and self-confessed Robbie Williams fan. During Hell Week, he became emotional after dedicating his solo piece to his mom, Fanny.
Choir trainor
•Elliot Andal, 24, of Batangas, is the son of a jeepney driver. He has worked as choir trainor and conductor and has won in several choral competitions. He was also a PPS contender.
•JJ Jr., 17, of Bataan, studies in Baguio, where he lives with parents Dindo and Cynthia Pimpino. He says that he holds the distinction of being the youngest PPS contestant at 14.
•Dio Paulo, 24, of Bacolod, works as call center agent for Teleperformance. His dad Melvin Maghari is a receptionist. Dio has sung in concerts and acted in a musical play.
•Daryl Celis, 21, of Rizal, is the son of an OFW. His mom Miriam Elli is a bar owner in Japan. He auditioned at SMX with his lola, whom he calls his “lucky charm.”
•Warren Antig, 25, of Baguio, once got a scolding from judges Ogie and Jolina because he wanted to back out, delaying the taping. He’s nicknamed “Bordado” by the staff because of his tattoos.
•Kid Camaya, 24, of Quezon City, works at the Bank of Philippine Islands. His real name is Elizalde. He says “Idol” is his “dream and passion.”
•Robby Navarro. 28, of Pampanga, recounts that he used to be part of a group. His decision to go solo was difficult, he says, but he insists it’s paying off.
•Walton Zerrudo, 25, of Laguna, considers “standards” as his forte. He describes son Weston as his inspiration: “I want him to be proud of me.”
Proud dad
•Sherwin Marquez, 26, of Dagupan, lives in Tuguegarao with parents Manuel and Letty Bayangan. He believes he will serve as a good example if he wins the contest.
•Ram Chavez, 25, of Cagayan de Oro, considers becoming a father as his most cherished accomplishment. His wife gave birth on the same day he auditioned at SMX.
•Toffer Rei, 23, of Marikina, is the son of a driver and a housewife. He resides in Green Heights. His full name is Kristoffer Rei Nolasco Tragico.
