JEDDAH, 27 February 2006 — A Filipino merchandiser at the Arabian Food Supply topped the Quest for Dream Star singing competition Friday at Jeddah’s Pearl of the Orient International School.
Feliciano “Sonny” Austria, 34 years old, bested 11 other finalists with his original interpretation of Josh Groban’s “The Prayer,” an English-Latino classical hit in early 90s.
For that, he won a round-trip ticket to Manila from Qatar Airways, plus a Mediacom digital karaoke system, a 21-inch TV, a trophy, a cash prize and other gift items.
Austria’s delivery of his song with powerful modulation, right timing and good quality of voice similar to Groban, gained him instant superstar status that evening.
A high school student of International Philippine School in Jeddah, Aubrey Caparros, was named 1st runner-up for her song “I Will Always Love You,” composed by Dolly Parton and popularized by Whitney Houston. Caparros, who also won the Star of the Night award, went home with a Beac speaker system, gift packs, a trophy and a cash prize.
Carolyn “Joy” Lopez, 15 years old, was 2nd runner-up for her rendition of “The Voice Within.” She won a mini-component, gift packs, a trophy and a cash prize.
The youngest finalist, 12-year-old Meryem Surmeli of Al-Hekma International School, was named Most Popular Dream Star, a special award for the earliest contestant with tickets sold out.
Another highlight of the evening was the rousing rendition of the other finalists, namely: John Marimla’s “I Love You Goodbye,” Meryem Surmeli’s “The Greatest Love of All,” and “I Dreamed a Dream” by Bernabe Labao.
The panel of judges included Paul Antiporda, Millet Paguio, Tina Aldover, Guzz Pacamara, Danny Roble, Noel Rotap, and this writer.
Erwin Reyes and Jess Ilar hosted the event, with 2004 Pop Star finalist Michael Franco as musical arranger, and Cesar Macaranas as event director.
Reyes is also chairman of the United Filipino Migrant Worker’s Association (Unifil), the event organizer.
