During the Finale held in Araneta Coliseum, the Idol judges boldly predicted that a male would win the competition, subtly implying that it would become a showdown between Gian Magdangal and Jan Nieto. Marcelo received negative comments from the judges on her first two songs—namely "Love Takes Time" by Mariah Carey which was her personal choice and "Balut" by New Minstrels which was the judges' choice—despite what appeared to be impressive performances. She rebounded on her third song, "Try It On My Own" by Whitney Houston, which was the record company's choice and would become her "victory song" if ever she would win. Her final performance received a long standing ovation from the audience.