After years of captivating audiences from childhood fame to theatrical stages, CJ Navato has secured his first major championship title. The performer triumphed as the "Ultimate Bida-Oke Sing-lebrity" in the grand finals of "Sing Galing: Sing-lebrity Edition Ultimate Pasingkatan" at the Meralco Theater, marking a significant career milestone.
Navato's journey began as a child star on "Goin' Bulilit," evolving through musical theater and television roles that steadily built his reputation. Despite his extensive industry experience, this win represents his inaugural top title.
The competition's finale aired across two weekends in March on TV5, featuring celebrity contestants including Johannes Rissler, Alexa Miro, Jay Gonzaga, SexBomb Monic Icban, and Nikki Valdez. Navato clinched victory with his powerful rendition of "Warrior Is a Child," originally popularized by Gary Valenciano, earning praise from a distinguished panel of judges.
"Honestly, this is my first time winning. I'm just grateful. It's a different opportunity to perform for people. I'm doing something good. I'm making people happy. That's all I ever wanted," Navato shared in a post-show interview.
For his victory, Navato received ₱500,000 in cash along with additional prizes including a vacation package, furniture, and a specially designed trophy. His chosen beneficiary, Erika Malle, also received ₱500,000.
Reflecting on his unexpected journey, Navato expressed, "This has been the most exciting, unexpected musical journey I will never forget. You don't know how big of a blessing it is for you. Blessings are unexpected."
The competition taught him valuable lessons about self-trust. "You always have to listen to whatever your heart is telling you. You have to know what your heart sounds like. It will lead you to where you're supposed to be," he revealed.
Johannes Rissler finished as first runner-up after performing "My Way," earning ₱250,000 along with his beneficiary. Alexa Miro and Jay Gonzaga followed, each receiving ₱200,000, while Monic Icban and Nikki Valdez took home ₱100,000 each, all with corresponding prizes for their beneficiaries.
Despite the competitive atmosphere, Navato acknowledged his fellow finalists' talents. "My opponents were really good, it's just a bonus. Everyone was doing something. We're all talented here," he noted.
Looking forward, Navato plans to continue pursuing music, including releasing more songs. "This is just the beginning. We can't give up. I won't give up," he concluded, signaling an exciting new chapter in his artistic career.