THE three singing pride of Cebu are coming home. Noontime hit “Tawag ng Tanghalan” (TNT) grand champion Janine Berdin, together with semi-finalists Marielle Montellano and Sheena Belarmino, proudly represented Cebu on national TV. TNT is a segment on ABS-CBN’S “It’s Showtime.”
Janine, 16, couldn’t contain her excitement thinking about the prospect of a homecoming show. Ever since she was hailed as TNT champion, Janine’s goal was to give back all the blessings God has given her.
The singer admitted that the last time she joined singing contests was when she was still eight years old. After years of insecurity, she finally grabbed the chance to live her dreams on national TV.
To perform and entertain people has always been a dream for her. She envied singers who often performed on stage, knowing fully of what she’s capable of doing vocally.
“Even if a bar asks me to sing 10 songs—it’s totally fine. I’d do it just as long I get the chance to sing. I’d even do it for free,” Janine gleefully said in Bisaya.
As for the BS Psychology student in Montellano, joining TNT was never in her plans. She was supposed to perform in a gig. However, she was told to try her luck in the TNT auditions. During the semi-finals, Marielle said she was not able to perform at her best because of a sudden vocal nodule.
With Belarmino, she’s had experience with a lot of singing shows, including “The Voice Kids.” Despite failing, Belarmino battled on and never gave up. She is thankful for TNT for giving her the opportunity to share her God-given talent.
“I’m just happy to have the opportunity to make people, our Kapamilya, our friends and family happy. I’m not aiming for the money, I’m aiming to make other people happy.” Belarmino said.
The three agreed that joining TNT was a life-changing journey. Berdin and Montellano were given their first single by TNT records, while Sheena was one of the contenders in “Your Face Sounds Familiar.”
After the huge success of their “TNT All-Star Showdown” concert at the Araneta Coliseum last July, the Cebuana singers will again reunite to bring the biggest singing showdown here in Cebu. These TNT singers, joined by other amazing artists, will leave Cebu with an experience of a lifetime. Watch the Cebu divas belt out the biggest hits this Sept. 21 at Hoops Dome, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. (S)