Did you know that the next American Idol (my fearless forecast), David Archuleta was once beaten by a Pinoy named Mark Mejia in another US TV talent search?

Yes folks, the show was Star Search hosted by Arsenio Hall, the same competition where our very own Josephine “Banig” Roberto beat Christina Aguilera in 1988.

5 years ago, David (then 12 years old), winner of the Junior Singers Competition on Star Search, competed with 10-year-old Mark Mejia of San Diego during the Battle of the Champions. The young Fil-Am bested David and 10-year-old Tiffany Evans, another champion, in the winners’ circle showdown.

Here’s Mark Mejia on the Star Search performance show:

According to reports, Mark (now 15 years old), son of Emmanuel and Gilda Mejia, is gearing up for next year’s American Idol when he turns 16, the minimum age requirement for AI contestants.

Who knows, he may surpass Jasmine Trias’ 3rd place finish in season 3 to be the first pinoy to conquer American Idol and be the first Asian-American Idol for that matter.

(via showbiznest)

Check out Mark’s videos on Youtube.