Last week, I shared on the blog how my brother, Kevin, made it to the semi-finals of the Gandang Lalake competition on It's Showtime. Last Saturday was their grand finals, and my family and some friends were there to support him. The entire 3-hour show was dedicated to this segment, and though I've been in the show three times already, it was evident that the crowd was wilder than ever!
The show kicked off with a production number of the hosts, showcasing several blue-collar jobs (i.e., service master, elevator girl, waitress). It was interesting that they had it connected with the competition's theme, a search for the best-looking career man.
All semi-finalists then each introduced themselves for the last time in their formal wear. A 3-hour deliberation took place with the resident and guest judges last Friday on who they think deserve to move to the next level in the competition. From the 58 contestants, the judges trimmed their choices down to only 15. These guys will have the chance to showcase their talent once again, and if fate permits, five of them will be left to answer in the Q&A portion, and compete for the grand title.
We've all been hoping and praying that Kevin moves on to the next round. Lo and behold, my brother was called first! He made it to the Top 15! It was so crazy, I began tearing up because I am that happy for him! The look on his face was so epic, he just kept looking at us, grinning from ear to ear.
Unfortunately, Kevin didn't advance further, but making it to the Top 15 was already an feat, and we totally agree on that. For this reason, we are especially grateful to God. A good friend of ours congratulated Kevin, and as we relentlessly thank him for supporting my brother all throughout the competition, he replied with "I wanted to share your joy. It was all Kevin's work. Credits to him." That's true, but in the same manner, praise God because if it's His will, it is His doing.
We this, our family would like to thank everyone—from relatives to friends to fans—for supporting Kevin all the way. Most importantly, thank You, Lord! To God be all the glory.
[All photos by Mr. Sany Chua, in-house photographer of ABS-CBN and Push.com.ph]
Grateful Heart Link-up with Emily of Ember Grey