Lyka Estrella. Image: screengrab from YouTube/ABS-CBN It’s Showtime
Lyka Estrella was declared the grand champion in the sixth year of “Tawag ng Tanghalan,” the singing competition of the noontime variety show “It’s Showtime.”
Estrella, of General Santos City, bested four other finalists, namely Nowi Alpuerto, Jezza Quiogue, Marko Rudio and Villier Villalobo, at the grand finals held on Saturday, May 6.
Estrella earned a total score of 98.9% after belting out Basil Valdez’s “Ngayon at Kailanman,” Aerosmith’s “Dream on” as well as a medley of Jessie J’s songs. Aside from the trophy, Estrella took home P1-million cash prize, P2.5 million-worth house and lot, a recording contract with ABS-CBN music, and a talent management contract with Polaris of Star Magic.
“I love you, Lord!” an emotional Estrella shouted as she sang a part of “Ngayon at Kailanman” after being proclaimed as the grand champion.
Alpuerto, of San Rafael, Bulacan, finished second place with a score of 95.1%, while Quiogue, of Tanza, Cavite, won third place with 89.6%.
Other singers who had emerged as grand champions from “Tawag ng Tanghalan” were Noven Belleza, Janine Berdin, Elaine Duran, JM Yosures and Reiven Umali. /ra