A contestant getting a standing ovation, a judge being moved to tears, and a blind teen giving an inspiring rendition of "I Believe I Can Fly" -- these were just some of the scenes from Friday's semifinals of "Tawag ng Tanghalan."

The last batch of semifinalists were given the difficult task of singing songs handpicked by the judges led by Rey Valera as these took them out of their comfort zones.

First up was Sam Mangubat and his rousing cover of Renz Verano's "Remember Me." Having previously drew shrieks with his charming looks and cool voice, the judges wanted to see if he could sing a Tagalog ballad.

Julia Faith Joaquin was next and she delivered her version of Adele's "Hello." Admittedly, Joaquin said she felt scared trying to emulate the Grammy-winning artist's voice.

Third up was Carl Malone Montecido, who sang "I Believe I Can Fly." Judge Erik Santos had nothing but praise for the blind balladeer, saying: "Hindi kami nagkamali sa pag-assign nitong kanta na ito sa iyo kasi sobra iyong intensity and passion. Pinaramdam mo sa amin kung gaano mo ito kagusto."

Fourth was Jex de Castro and his cover of "Say That You Love Me," originally written by Louie Ocampo. Ogie Alcasid told him: "Lalaki ako pero kinikilig ako sa iyo. You are a complete balladeer."

Hazelyn Cascaño was fifth and she sang Chaka Khan's "Got To Be There." Before taking the stage, she said she wasn't familiar with the song. "I am just in awe. Your talent is just immensely huge," Jaya told her.

For his part, Froilan Canlas was asked to sing Basil Valdez's "Sana ay Ikaw na Nga." He admitted it was first time to try and belt out the OPM ballad. It was enough to move to judge Erik Santos to tears. "Grabe iyong storytelling niya."

Last up was Joylaine Canonio and her cover of Diana Ross's "It's My Turn." And while she wasn't familiar with the song that she was given, Canonio said that it was a challenge she was willing to take on.