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WEEK 12 Kai Montinola captures the magic of Lea Salonga in a beautiful tribute

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Liezel Dela Cruz

Kai Montinola first caught everyone’s attention as the “Singing Gwapa ng Cebu” on &quot;<a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/studios/tv/pbbgen112024" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">PBB Gen 11</a>&quot; back in 2024, and ever since her “PBB” stint wrapped up, she&#x27;s been blessed with opportunities that have let her showcase not just her love for singing but also her growing passion for acting.But the rising star still has another talent up her sleeve. On the &quot;<a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/studios/tv/your-face-sounds-familiar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Your Face Sounds Familiar</a>&quot; stage, she teased just how powerful she could be if she ever decided to go full theater mode. Kai unleashed burning potential as she transformed into Lea Salonga, performing “I’d Give My Life for You” from Miss Saigon.From the look to the emotions and the vocals, Kai fully embodied Lea’s Broadway character Kim, giving it her all, as she holds so much respect for the icon who brought pride to the Philippines.“It’s an honor,” she said after her number. “She’s really my icon talaga ever since I was little, kaya kahit this was super quick, I’m so glad that you guys gave me the opportunity to play my icon in life.”Even Sharon Cuneta, seeing Kai perform for the first time, was instantly charmed by the Gen Z artist, who reminded her of Lea&#x27;s youthful &quot;Miss Saigon&quot; era. “I hope many people give you all the breaks you deserve,” the Megastar told the guest, before adding a little reminder, “Please stay humble.”Erik Santos also expressed excitement about Kai’s future, believing she has everything it takes to shine even brighter as a star because aside from the visuals, the girl can seriously sing.Meanwhile, Ogie Alcasid sees theater in Kai’s destiny. In fact, it’s on his bucket list to watch her in a stage play someday and he’s even willing to help make that happen by possibly casting her in a musical he’s currently working on. Raise your hand if you&#x27;re also manifesting with Kai!On April 5, the Grand Showdown officially begins! Catch the finale round of &quot;<a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/entertainment/studios/tv/your-face-sounds-familiar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Your Face Sounds Familiar</a>&quot; on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, ALLTV, and <a href="https://app.iwanttfc.com/dFR6MWHAcVb" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iWant.</a>

"YFSF"guest artist Kai Montinola steps into Lea Salonga’s iconic Broadway role and delivers a performance that feels straight out of a stage musical.

"YFSF"guest artist Kai Montinola steps into Lea Salonga’s iconic Broadway role and delivers a performance that feels straight out of a stage musical.

WEEK 12: Kai Montinola captures the magic of Lea Salonga in a beautiful tribute | YFSF 2026

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WEEK 12: Kai Montinola captures the magic of Lea Salonga in a beautiful tribute | YFSF 2026

Liezel Dela Cruz

Published March 15, 2026 09:14 PM PHT

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Updated March 16, 2026 08:31 AM PHT

Read More:

Your Face Sounds Familiar

Kai Montinola

Lea Salonga

Sharon Cuneta

Ogie Alcasid

Erik Santos

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