Filipinos are fond of singing wherever part of the world they maybe in. For them it is both an entertainment and a stress reliever. In the advent of Covid19 pandemic most of us stay home and singing helps one to cope with the anxiety and depression the isolation and unpredictability the situation that afflict some.
With this thought, Tinig Pinoy Radio came up with what proved to be an exciting contest with strong entertainment values titled “The Best Rendition of OPM Songs.” It is an online singing competition open to all Filipinos wherever they are. The tilt showcased the talent of many who sent-in their audition music videos. Each week semi-finalists were chosen to join the five finalists for the Grand Finals. The fun-filled competition ran for 4 weeks. Chosen as grand finalists are Yolanda de la Cruz, Edie Boy Garcia, Jonh Lester Estuya, Rose Opaon, Lauren Taburnal and Julius Sandoval.
Filipinos are fond of singing wherever part of the world they maybe in. For them it is both an entertainment and a stress reliever. In the advent of Covid19 pandemic most of us stay home and singing helps one to cope with the anxiety and depression the isolation and unpredictability the situation that afflict some.
The days leading to the Grand Finals proved nerve-wracking as we prepared for the much-anticipated finale to crown the deserving champion. Thanks to our hardworking Admins: Sussane Crystal Jhay and Dona Bartolome Perez assistance and commitment, things went smoothly and successfully.
During the Grand Finals, the finalists delivered LIVE performances and was watched by thousands of their fans and supporter via Facebook LIVE.
Five competent and impartial judges: Gabay ng OFW International host Tita Lou Medina, former band mainstay Tony Medina, community leader and choir director Addie Bantug, singer/composer Jay Jimenez of Jay Brothers and GMA 7 comedian, movie and TV personality Inday Garutay provided analysis and constructive feedback after each contestant performed. There were some crazy and astonishing comments that either proved bold and straight forward, yet were Impressive. As the show’s host, I felt quite honored to have them as judges.
An additional highlight of the contest was the “death match” between Yolanda dela Cruz and Rose Opaon whose final scores were identical. But, while all five contestants prove to be winners with their great performances, as in any competition, somebody gets to be the top winner. Rose Opaon took home the grand prize of 5,000 Pesos and a 32 inch Smart TV. The show lasted for more than 2 hours.
It was a great experience for all as we learned how to deal with unexpected problems that could occur during the show. Had it not been for issues brought by bad internet connections, the show would have been truly successful. Altogether, the five talented contestants, the judges, the sponsors, the audience and the Tinig Pinoy staff all contributed in the successful holding of the Best Rendition of OPM Songs finals. As the host, it’s been a great experience and an honor to having been in the company of all the people who composed the two-hour show.
A heartfelt thanks to everyone.
