‘Tawag ng Tanghalan’ semifinalist sings from the heart after break up with girlfriend

MANILA, Philippines — Recovering from a heartbreak, Mindanao contender John Michael Dela Cerna wowed the judges with his rendition of the Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody” in Showtime’s “Tawag ng Tanghalan.”

In a video uploaded on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s Youtube account, Dela Cerna revealed that he broke up with his girlfriend because of his busy schedule as a contestant in Showtime’s singing competition.

“Nasanay po kami araw araw magkasama lalo na sa Pasko naalala ko na gumagawa kami ng mango float habang Christmas po. Nung natanggap ako ng Tawag ng Tanghalan, nagkalamigan. ‘Yung communication nabawasan po kasi,” he said in an episode aired on Monday.

Following his heartbreak, Dela Cerna has promised to give his 100 percent if he should ever love again.

“Ngayong bagong taon kung sakali ako’y iibig muli, sisiguraduhin kong ibibigay ko ang aking 100 percent,” Dela Cerna said.

Dela Cerna ended his performance with the song’s touching final verse: “I need your love. God speed your love to me.”

Moved by the performance, Showtime’s judges, Randy Santiago; Karylle; Ogie Alcasid; Rey Valera; and Yeng Constantino gave Dela Cerna a standing ovation.  /muf