MANILA -- New "Tawag ng Tanghalan" champion, 18-year-old music student Demie Fresco, brought tears to comedian Vice Ganda on Monday.

Fresco staged a heartfelt performance of Sarah Geronimo's hit "Ngayon Bukas at Kailan Man" on the popular "It's Showtime" segment.

Fresco, who hails from Sultan Kudarat, is currently studying at a music school in Manila.

"Gusto ko pong maipagpatuloy ang dream ng aking lola na maging isang professional na musician," she said. "Yung lola ko po kasi ang nagpalaki sa akin. Siya po 'yung unang nag-train sa akin para maging isang singer."

After the performance, Vice Ganda immediately congratulated Fresco.

"Sa sobrang ganda ng boses niya, kahit hindi ko alam 'yong kinakanta niya, parang damang dama ko. Parang kinakausap mo ako," he said.

For his part, "Tawag ng Tanghalan" guest judge Nyoy Volante commended Fresco for her music knowledge.

"One thing is for sure: Alam mo ang ginagawa mo. Sobrang alam mo ang ginagawa mo sa lahat ng aspects. Sa quality ng boses, kung paano mo gamitin, 'yong dynamics mo, at tsaka style. Ang galing e," he said.

Judge Yeng Constantino, meanwhile, noted that Fresco's voice is perfect for recording.

"Ang ganda mong panoorin, ang sarap mong pakinggan. Kulang na lang, album. Sa totoo lang," she said.

Fresco dethroned defending champion Claire Anne Yongco with a breathtaking performance of Sheryn Regis' "Follow Your Dream."