Noven Belleza is the new ‘Tawag ng Tanghalan’ champion

Noven Belleza is crowned Tawag ng Tanghalan Champion. Photo by Marinel Cruz

Farmer Noven Belleza from Victorias City, Negros Occidental, was heralded the champion of the popular talent search “Tawag ng Tanghalan” and winner of a P2-million cash prize.

Belleza beat five other equally worthy contenders during the contest’s “Huling Tapatan” (grand finals) held on Saturday at the Resorts World Manila in Pasay City.

For Belleza’s winning performance of a medley of Air Supply tunes, he garnered the combined score of 99.96 percent from the judges’ scores and text votes.

Sam Mangubat, who got 49.9 percent, was a far second. He dished out songs popularized by Bruno Mars. On the third slot is Froilan Canlas, who did some original Filipino songs, with 45.78 percent.

“I can’t wait to come home. I want to celebrate my victory with my kababayan in Negros. Their support is the reason I made it this far,” said Noven when asked what his plans were, especially since the competition was finished.

“Tawag ng Tanghalan” is a segment on the noontime variety program “It’s Showtime.” Starting March 13, the segment will feature child contestants ages 7 to 13.