Manila, Philippines — It was a tear-filled episode of It’s Showtime as young singing sensation Argus delivered one of the most emotional performances ever seen on the noontime show, prompting tears not only from the audience but also from the show’s hosts, including Vice Ganda.

The moment unfolded during a heartfelt segment where Argus, known for his talent and pure-hearted personality, bravely opened up about his father’s recent passing. In a voice trembling with emotion yet full of love, Argus shared that he wanted to dedicate his performance to his beloved “Tatay,” who had been his source of strength and inspiration.

Vice Ganda at Argus, Hindi napigilang MAPALUHA sa segment ng ISIP BATA..!😢  | SHOWTIME May 26, 2023

As the music started, silence fell over the studio. Argus sang with all his heart, eyes closed, hands trembling, and voice cracking at moments—but never faltering. His raw emotion resonated with every person watching.

Vice Ganda, often known for bringing joy and laughter, was seen wiping tears from his eyes. “Napakabata pa niya, pero ang puso niya, punong-puno ng pagmamahal,” Vice said after the performance. (“He’s still so young, but his heart is already filled with so much love.”)

Other hosts, including Anne Curtis, Vhong Navarro, and Jhong Hilario, were visibly moved, offering hugs and words of comfort to Argus once the song ended.

“My Tatay always told me to keep singing, no matter what,” Argus said through tears. “So I sang today for him. I hope he heard me.”

The studio was filled with applause—many standing—not just for the talent, but for the courage it took to bare such deep grief on live television.

On social media, the clip of Argus’s performance immediately went viral. Fans from around the country shared their own messages of support and condolences, praising the young performer’s strength and vulnerability.

ARGUS, pinaiyak sila VICE GANDA at buong SHOWTIME! NAGPAALAM NA SA TATAY

“He sang not just with his voice, but with his soul,” one netizen wrote.

Another commented, “Argus made us cry today, but he also reminded us of the power of love and music. His Tatay would be so proud.”

This isn’t the first time Argus captured hearts on It’s Showtime. From the beginning, viewers were drawn to his charm, innocence, and unmistakable talent. But this performance felt different—deeper, more personal, and unforgettable.

Producers of Showtime later revealed that the team gave Argus the option to skip his appearance that day due to the recent tragedy, but the young performer insisted on pushing through. “My father would want me to keep going,” he said.

Vice Ganda later posted on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “I love you, Argus. You gave us all something real today. Your Tatay is smiling down on you.”

Many believe that the episode will go down as one of the most powerful in the show’s history, a testament to how live TV can still touch people in ways that go beyond entertainment.

As the segment closed, the camera panned to Argus, surrounded by the Showtime family—crying, hugging, and holding his hand. The show paused for a moment of silence, a tribute to Argus’s father and to all loved ones we’ve lost.

In the midst of grief, Argus reminded everyone of something profound: that love, especially between a child and a parent, doesn’t end with goodbye—it lives on in every note, every word, and every brave step forward.