It was an exciting night at the Big Dome. The music thrummed and the banners waved as fans cheered for their favorite Pinoy Pop Superstar contender. Everyone, everywhere had a taste of jumpy jitters. The announcement couldn’t wait at the end on who would be declared the winner of this prestigious talent search. After a series of intense showdowns that kept the audience in anticipation, Asia’s songbird and Pinoy Pop Superstar host Regine Velasquez announced “And the 1st Pinoy Pop Superstar is… Jonalyn Viray!” Stunned, the 15-year-old contestant cried in joy as 19-year-old Brenan Espartinez, the closest in line to win the title, wrapped her a big-brother’s hug in honor of her victory. “I’m ready na hindi matawag yung name ko. Tapos iniisip ko na nga ‘yung blocking ko…na pupunta ako sa likod, then palakpak na kay Kuya Brenan,” Jonayln shared later with the press. Apparently, her big voice won the hearts of the judges as well as the public, many of whom showed up at the Araneta Coliseum. Some even cheered she sounded much like Superstar Nora Aunor, although Jonalyn has her own unique style and flair. During the showdown, she tackled Patti Austin’s version of “It Might Be You.” In the Final Four phase, she gave a rendition of Whitney Houston’s “Run To You” as her closest rival, Brenan, gave an R&B twist to the song, “My Miracle.” Both won praises for their performances, but the petite Jonalyn emerged as the winner. Pinoy Pop Superstar’s judges were Television and Stage Director Floy Quintos, World Class Composer and Record Producer Danny Tan, R&B Princess, Kyla, Soul Diva Jaya and GMA Records’ Executive Vice President and Chief operating Officer Felipe S. Yalung. The Contenders Given the talent of all eight finalists, no one knew who would be the Pinoy Pop Superstar. Michael Garcia, Kristel Astor, Charmaine Piamonte, MC Monterola, Brenan Espartinez, Jonalyn Viray, Philbert de Torres and Sheile Ferrari have gained the public’s admiration for their strong performances. For the first showdown, Fil-Am contender Sheila Ferrari sang “Tukso,” wondering plenty where she swiftly got her ace delivery of the old Filipino ballad. The rest performed contemporary hits in English. Brenan, Michael, Charmaine and Jonalyn topped the Final Four phase. Michael, the seven-week champion and text favorite went subtle with “She’s Out Of My Life.” Charmaine turned dramatic with “I Will Love Again” as with Jonalyn’s emotional “Run To You.” Brenan went cool and savvy with “Careless Whisper.” Thereafter, two contestants were selected from the group, bringing Brenan and Jonalyn to the last round. Glam and fame As the 1st Pinoy Pop Superstar, Jonalyn took with her a Futura Classic house and lot from Filinvest Land Inc., a brand-new Toyota Innova, an exclusive contract under GMA records and Php1 million in cash from Coca-Cola. Other prizes include Php100,000 worth of beauty and skin care from Belo Medical Group and Php50,000 worth of beauty products and services from Gandang Ricky Reyes. Bumping with the press, Jonalyn said she’ll be helping her father work and that some of the cash prizes will be kept in the bank. Tearful, she had this message for him “Daddy, ‘eto na po ‘yung dream natin, natupad na natin so huwag na po kayong magwo-worry sa future natin… Mahal na mahal ko po kayo.” Backstage, Jonalyn was relentlessly squeezed by her fellow contenders and relatives in recognition of her achievement. “I know Jonalyn deserves to win,” Brenan said with a smile, while adding “I’ll still be singing for sure.” Indeed, Brenan could well be on his way to stardom too. He was awarded Coca-Cola’s Most Admired Superstar and received Php20,000 in cash from Coca-Cola. The company also handed Php20,000 as cash donation to the GMA 7 Kapuso Foundation. The rest of the contenders had their share of fame and admirers as well. At the end of the show, fans pursued them for autographs and photos. Their faces are now well remembered for blazing through the toughest of musical challenges, showing off their best and performing on a grand scale.