MANILA, Philippines - After the success of the kiddie culinary competition, "Junior MasterChef," ABS-CBN is getting the franchise for the adult version of the hit cooking show, "MasterChef."
The news was confirmed by host Judy Ann Santos during the press conference for the "Junior MasterChef Pinoy Edition Finale: The Live Cook-Off," which airs on Saturday, February 18.
"'Yung susunod after 'Junior MasterChef' ay 'MasterChef.' Then hopefully second season ng 'Junior MasterChef," Santos said.
The "MasterChef" franchise originated with the U.K. version of the show. The American version stars celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay.
Asked if she would still be working with chef-judges Fern Aracama, Rolando Laudico and JP Anglo for "MasterChef," Santos said, "Mukhang kaming apat pa rin ang magkakasama."
Santos also announced that she may do a TV series.
"There's a possible teleserye this year," she said. "I really miss acting."
Top 4 kiddie cooks
The remaining four kiddie cooks competing in "Junior MasterChef" are Kyle Imao, Jobim Jalbuena, Mika Tanaka and Philip Amarillo.
The finalists were named after wowing the host-judges with their crab dishes in last Sunday's episode. Caitlin Tabulan and wildcard winner Louise Mabulo were the last cooks eliminated from the competition.
On Saturday, the Top 4 will face off in a live cook-off.
The show's grand winner will get P1.5 million worth of culinary scholarships and a P1-million cash prize.