Who is your bet for the next American Idol?

Wondering what’s keeping a lot of people glued to their TV sets Wednesday and Thursday nights? American Idol! It’s down to the final four and the voting is getting furious, whether in the US where it actually counts, or in offices here where people are taking bets. The grand finals will be on May 24 and 25 and you can bet it’s going to be as hot as last year’s Carrie Underwood and Bo Bice showdown. AI is shown on StarWorld with afternoon and primetime telecasts.

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SANDY POBLADOR, consultant and realtor: Elliot Yamin. Even Paula Abdul agrees that he is exactly what American Idol is looking for.

BERNICE PALANCA GO, consultant: My choices are Chris "The Rocker" Daughtry because AI needs to choose someone different this time plus he’s got a great voice; and Taylor Hicks because his style is different and he always puts on a good show.

JOE GUIAO, La Salle Greenhills Varsity Basketball: Elliot Yamin because he can sing any type of music and he doesn’t even have to warm up his vocals before performing. For me, that makes him a great singer and most importantly the three judges like him, that’s why I think he’s going to be the next AI. My next favorite is Taylor Hicks; he looks like Jay Leno! But Taylor can sing well, he’s got great charisma and is one of America’s favorites.

LEN NEPUMUCENO GUIAO, fashion designer/vice president of FDCP: Chris Daughtry will be the next American Idol! I’m so biased for rockers, I love them! Chris has the greatest voice and stage presence, every time he’s on stage to perform, I drop everything just to listen to him. I loved his version of Have You Ever Loved a Woman? Really good! Elliot Yamin is another favorite – he has a really nice, mellow voice. It’s amazing how he can sing without vocalizing!

LES ROMERO, businessman: Taylor Hicks. He sings every song with so much passion. His unique style and personality really puts him apart from the rest. Second choice would be Katharine McPhee because she has a clear, powerful voice. Singing seems effortless for her.

MARK CHRISTIAN PARLADE, associate PR director, Stratworks: I’m an avid, rabid American Idol fan. I always look forward to Katharine’s singing on Star World’s direct via satellite telecasts and even the replays at 8 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. The way she smiles when she sings – it’s like she’s singing just for me. When she sings, it’s really something beautiful. No doubt about it, she’s given me McPheever! She has a great voice, a great personality, a great smile. I hope those will be enough to win her the title. For some reason, Elliot Yamin has grown on me. I think he has one of the best voices. I hear he’s overcome a lot: he’s deaf in one ear and has diabetes, but despite these, he comes off as one of the nicest guys and best singers on the show.

JOEY BENIN, composer/bass player for Side A: The ones that stood out during the audition for me were Taylor and Katharine. Aside from character, looks and uniqueness, they both have a great voice. I think that next AI is going to be Taylor. It’s been a while since the music industry has had soul artists like Joe Cocker, Ray Charles, Michael MacDonald, and Michael Bolton. Taylor could be in the same roster: the Soul Patrol! My second choice would be my daughters Clara and Sarah’s favorite – Katharine McPhee. She’s got beauty, voice and charisma.

JM RODRIGUEZ, stage actor: I think it’s going to be a toss between Katharine and Chris. I really like Katharine because she has the characteristics of a true American Idol. She’s got versatility, a wide range and, of course, beauty. Chris, on the other hand, is not only a rocker but has proven that he can sing ballads and can interpret songs very well. I will be happy if either of them wins.

MIKEE MORADA, student, South Ridge: I’m always rooting for the underdog, that’s why I wanted Kevin to win, but too bad he’s already out. I’m betting it’s going to be Chris Daughtry; he’s consistently shown a great voice and I also read that he never had voice lessons or anything – so pure a talent. I wanted Paris Bennet to win because she’s so young, and I’d like her to start earning and get rich – something I want to happen to me!

MENCHI OZAETA TANTOCO, jeweler/interior designer: My first choice is Katharine, second is Paris Bennett – too bad she got eliminated. Both are very talented artists.

MARI LAGDAMEO, businessman: My personal choice is Katharine McPhee. My second choice is Chris Daughtry. I think the winning formula involves talent and looks. Both of them possess these qualities

NELSON CARUNCHO, tenor/musical director/vocal coach: Katharine and Chris. Katharine has the correct vocal training to conquer any style. One must have proper technique in order to be creative. Chris, on the other hand, oozes with personality and powerful vocal gifts. Also, both are quite adorable!

NALDY GONZALEZ, band member, Side A: Katharine has a great voice, great singing and good looks. She just has to make the right choices with her songs. Good thing she can make it look so effortless whatever she chooses to sing.

ART VALDEZ, expedition leader, First Philippine Mt. Everest Expedition (via satellite phone): Even if we’re in Everest Base Camp, I keep in touch with my family in Manila so I get updates about American Idol. I am rooting for Taylor Hicks because I like the kind of music he sings and the way he sings it with such personality.

DR. OME NUGUID: Right from the start of the competition, I always voted for Elliot. The quality of voice and his versatility are very impressive.