Appearing confident as he began his song, "Tawag ng Tanghalan" defending champion Jonar Rementizo had a sudden change of expression as he struggled to remember the lyrics in the performance meant to fend off his challenger.

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Rementizo, who took the stage with a rendition of "Isusumbong Kita sa Diyos," skipped significant portions of the song, and only managed to complete the chorus, as seen in the episode of "It's Showtime" aired Wednesday.

The judges could be seen cheering him on throughout the performance. Yeng Constantino and Nyoy Volante appeared in disbelief, while Mitoy Yonting stood from his seat to express support for Rementizo.

The Mindanao singer was on his third day defending the "golden mikropono." Ultimately, however, Rementizo lost his spot to challenger Mariel Panillon, who got an average score of 90.2% versus his 79.8%.

• 'Tawag' hopeful forgets lyrics, stopped by gong, returns with same song

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A contestant forgetting lyrics has happened numerous times on "Tawag ng Tanghalan." Notably, Year 1 semifinalist Lalaine Araña lost her slot in that leg of the competition after a sudden mental block prevented her from finishing her performance.

She triumphantly returned in Year 2, where she finished as a semifinalist.