MANILA, Philippines – Korean heartthrob Yohan Hwang emerged as the first Grand Touristar of ABS-CBN’s original singing competition for 100% non-Pinoys who love Filipino music, “I Love OPM,” beating co-finalists from Korea, Pakistan, and U.S.A.
Yohan got the highest combined score of 32.82% from Himigration Officers Martin Nievera, Lani Misalucha, and Toni Gonzaga and the Kababayan votes, which were cast through mobile and through online, edging out other Top 4 Touristars Ryan Gallagher from U.S.A., Dio Smith from Pakistan, and fellow Korean J-Morning.
The 20 year old La Salle student stood out with his powerful rendition of “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” theme song “Wag Ka Nang Umiyak” as sung by Gary Valenciano.
Yohan bravely took the challenge of Himigration Officer Martin Nievera for him to go beyond his usual cute performances and show his more serious side as a balladeer.
“You surprised us all. Your performance surely levelled up. You proved to us that you are not just a heartthrob but a singing heartthrob!” said Lani.
As the Grand Touristar, Yohan receives P2 million in cash, a summer vacation package in Cebu, and a one-year recording contract with Star Music.
The grand finals dubbed as “The Grand Destination,” hosted by Anne Curtis with Eric Nicolas, was also graced by Pinoy music icons Randy Santiago, Hajji Alejandro, and Arnel Pineda and teen heartthrob James Reid.
The show also trended on micro-blogging site Twitter both nationwide and worldwide.
“I Love OPM” is ABS-CBN’s original singing competition for 100% non-Filipinos who love OPM music. Relive the experience via iwantv.com.ph or skyondemand.com.ph for Sky subscribers. For updates, follow @iloveopmtv on Instagram and Twitter or like www.facebook.com/iloveopm on Facebook.