In the search for Rico Blanco's replacement to be the new vocalist of Rivermaya, 18-year-old Jayson Fernandez was only a "saling pusa" among the 12 finalists; he became the 13th contestant when the organizers decided to add another slot. (Video clips after the article)

Ironically, the young Bicolano bested the 12 original contestants to win the grand finals of the search for the band’s new member last October 24 at the Music Museum.

The finals night became a showdown between Jayson and Hans Dimayuga, another finalist. Jayson’s ace was his voice and youthful good looks while Hans showcased his own composition which garnered the most number of text votes and got the judges’ nod for Best original song.

But in the end, it was Jayson who won the competition because he wowed the judges with his rendition of the classic Rivermaya hit “Himala”.

The judges are composed of The Dawn’s guitarist Francis Reyes, Razorback’s bassist Louie Talan and Rivermaya’s co-manager Lizza Nakpil.

Jason introduces himself:

Jason Performs “Awit ng Kabataan”: