MANILA, Philippines — "PoPinoy" judges mean business. They're on the lookout for the best sing-and-dance girl and boy groups in TV5's reality idol search "PoPinoy." No drama needed.
Singer and theater actress Kayla Rivera answered matter-of-factly when she and her fellow judges Maja Salvador, DJ Loonyo and Jay-R were asked if the back stories of the contestants will be shown.
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This has been a popular aspect of many reality TV shows that is often frowned upon especially in talent shows where "sob stories" can affect the voting mechanics of the public.
"Doon sa first taping, wala kaming alam sa background. We just ask them about themselves. That's not really a factor in determining kung may potential sila. It doesn't affect. This is really a search for the next P-pop idol based on talent, presence, charm," answered Kayla during the show's recent virtual presscon.
"Oo, wala talaga kaming alam sa background nila," Maja confirmed. "Lagi kaming sa performance nila nakatutok. Doon lang talaga kami nagko-comment. Konting tsikahan. Kung may lumabas na kwento, okay. Kung wala, mas magfo-focus sa performance."
Maja added that viewers may expect the back stories of the contestants and their journey toward stardom in the succeeding episodes.
The other judges or "headhunters" revealed the criteria of a "PoPinoy" idol.
DJ Loonyo, who became viral for his dance choreographies, enumerated charisma, presence and X-factor
"Sabi ko nga, 'yung tipong kahit natutulog ka, mapapanaginipan mo. Based on experience ko sa competitions, sa sobrang dami, kumbaga dapat meron kang undeniable na hitsura, dating, presence lalo na pag nagpe-perform ka. Dapat tumatagos 'yan sa camera," he elaborated.
Related: WATCH: DJ Loonyo reacts to 'SLAM BOOK' questions
Jay-R said he is more technical because he is also a record producer and singer. He's also looking for skills, creativity and originality.
Maja, on the other hand, shared that she likes to see passion in the contestants. She argued that she believes it is a crucial factor as she has seen it through her own almost two decades of experience in show business.
Kayla, on the other hand, agreed with all qualities but also highlighted an attribute that all fellow theater talents possess.
"Being a storyteller because you're telling a story through song, dance," she explained, adding taking one's craft seriously and professionalism in her list.
"PoPinoy" airs at 8 p.m. on TV5. Viewers can also watch “POPDates,” a recap show of the day’s highlights airing on weekdays at 9:30 p.m., hosted by Anikka dela Cruz.
Viewers will have access to more content on Colours that focuses on the aspirants’ journey: "PoPinoy UpClose,” a chat-musical with interviews featuring those who have advanced to the Top 10, will premiere on July 9 at 9:30 p.m. on Colours and “Journey to the Finish,” a more intimate feature-focus show on each of the Top 3 girl-and-boy groups, will premiere on October 9, 9:30 p.m., both hosted by Adrianna So.