MANILA - Sam Mangubat may have defended his "Tawag ng Tanghalan" crown on Tuesday, but the Batangas native also got a stern warning from head judge Rey Valera.

Before announcing the winner, the visibly disappointed music icon criticized Mangubat and challenger Clark Serafim for their shaky performances. Mangubat sang O-Town's "All Or Nothing," while Serafim covered Jeremiah's "Nanghihinayang."

Valera called both performances "palpak."

Mangubat will return to "It's Showtime" on Wednesday in search of his fourth straight win. He needs five for an automatic spot in the semifinals.

Should Mangubat win again on Wednesday, he would find himself in a scenario similar to when he first joined the singing contest back in August, when he fell one win short of a place in the next round.