RnB Sistah Krizza Neri is Protégé's very first Grand Champion

CEBU, Philippines - RnB Sistah Krizza Neri makes history after being crowned as the first ever grand winner of GMA Network's phenomenally hit singing superstar search, PROTÉGÉ during the spectacular finale held last December 18 at the Center Stage at the SM Mall of Asia.

The 16-year-old protégé of mentor Aiza Seguerra from Cagayan de Oro emerged victorious over the other two finalists, Singing Cinderella Lovely Embuscado from Davao and Pop Sweetheart Lirah Bermudez from Iloilo after receiving the highest number of text votes from the judges and the viewers during the triple live showdown of the Top 3.

Krizza came home with the incredible grand prize which includes P1 million cash from GMA Network, a 2-bedroom unit from Suntrust Adriatico Gardens in Manila worth P3 million, a 5-year management contract with GMA Artist Center, and a 4-year scholarship grant from STI, while her mentor Aiza received P500,000 cash.

Lovely, on the other hand, won P50,000 cash after bagging the Texter's Choice Award and P100,000 cash for receiving the Skyflakes Biggest Break Award. She also received a 5-year management contract with GMA Artist Center and a 4-year scholarship grant from STI together with Lirah.

Making the finals night even spectacular were the special performances of the 10 celebrity mentors and their respective protégés together with Journey Host Ogie Alcasid and Reality host Jennylyn Mercado. Multitalented performer Arnel Pineda also rendered a special song number during the live finale.

The panel of judges - composed of well-renowned composer/musical director/writer Louie Ocampo, well-respected talent manager/director Bert de Leon and entertainment guru, Joey de Leon was joined by two award-winning actresses Cherie Gil and Eula Valdez. Senior Vice-president for Entertainment-TV Wilma V. Galvante was also in attendance for the presentation of awards. (FREEMAN)