I was expecting a bubbly, giggly and chatty 11 year old girl when I was asked by my editor to interview the new Pinay singing sensation Mariz Molina Perez who just recently won the reality talent show “Tú sí que vales” kiddie portion and is qualified for the grand finals to compete with other thirteen contestants. Instead, I found myself facing a very shy, unassuming and I should say, a very pretty morena beauty who just gave me a smile and her sweet “Si” everytime I threw the questions at her. Blame it on jetlag and maybe lack of sleep, she just came from an interview with the morning TV program Ana Rosa in Madrid. Despite having less sleep, Mariz radiates freshness and innocence during our conversation.
When asked about how she felt about the grand finals, Mariz sheepishly replied “nervous and excited.” An only daughter who loves singing very much, Charice Pempengco and Sarah Geronimo top her list of favorite singers. She will be singing two songs tonight: “I will survive” and “ What a feeling.” She dreams of becoming an international singer someday.
It was when Mariz joined the Dangal ng Guardians Singing Contest that one of the judges, Filipina-Spanish Jessica Lozano Addatu found the making of a big talent in this up and coming singing sensation. Jessica, who herself is a singer-composer convinced Mariz to try joining the Spanish TV talent show “Tú sí que vales.” For Mariz, joining the said competition was a learning experience, to show off her talent and at the same time enjoy what she really does best, singing.
After winning the children’s category singing “I will survive”, she will be up against adult contestants again. If she wins tonight, she will bag the grand prize of 100,000 euros and a new star is born. According to Jessica who also serves as her adviser and manager, win or lose, there is a lot of things in store for her. With her talent, she can go places.
As I was about to end the interview, I asked Mariz to pose for some photos for me which she shyly obliged. I wished her the best and hope that she brings home the bacon. Nevertheless, win or lose, she has already made us Pinoys proud of her. Mabuhay ka Mariz! Tú sí que vales! Written by Nathaniel Sisma Villaluna
Ang Bagong Filipino 
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