The big showdown between the bottom two from each of the five groups in GMA-7's Protégé: The Battle For the Big Artista Break happened tonight, August 19 and five hopefuls were eliminated from the Top 20.
From last week's group performances, two from each group became part of the bottom two who will compete against each other for a slot in the competition.
The bottom 2 Protégés had a showdown showcasing their talents whether it was singing, dancing or acting to help their mentors decide on who to eliminate. The judges (composed of guru Joey De Leon, director Bert De Leon, actress Cherie Gil and GMA Films head Annette Gozon-Abrogar) made some remarks that could influence the decision of the mentors.
North and Central Luzon Protégé mentor Ricky Davao chose Japs De Luna over Glenn Roy while Mega Manila Protégé mentor Roderick Paulate voted Kelly D out and saved Vien Allen King. Visayas Protégé mentor Jolina Magdangal saved Zandra Summer and let go of Mitch Capili while South Luzon Protégé mentor Gina Alajar chose Arny Ross over Mykel Ong. Mindanao Protégé mentor Phillip Salvador had his thumbs up for Ruru Madrid and eliminated Apple Vega.
Now, only 15 finalists remain and will continue their journey for a big artista break. They are:
North and Central Luzon
Japs de Luna
Reese Tayag
Shelly Hipolito
Andres Vasquez
Elle Ramirez
Vien Alen King
South Luzon
Arny Ross
Jeric Gonzales
Thea Tolentino
Visayas
Bryan Benedict
Mikoy Morales
Zandra Summer
Mindanao
David John Llanas
Ruru Madrid
Steffi Pacheco