MANILA, Philippines - The countdown to the first-ever grand finals of top-rating ABS-CBN program "Showtime" continues to get more exciting as the show delivers one surprise after the other.

And with its much-anticipated season 2 beginning Monday, Filipinos can expect more suprises from the hit talent-variety show.

Last week, the program announced a wild card round that gave a second chance to groups that failed to reach the finals. On July 19, hosts Vhong Navarro, Anne Curtis, and Kim Atienza were surprised when they were asked to decide on the fate of the wild card contestants as co-judges of resident judge Vice Ganda.

Moreover, the biggest surprise of them all is about to come this Saturday at "Showtime The Finals," where a "big comeback" will happen to determine the group that will take home the P1-million grand prize.

Meantime, the people behind the show, including the wacky tandem of Jugs of Itchyworms and Teddy of Rocksteddy, were all praises for the finalists.

"For me, they are all winners. The joy and amusement they have brought to Filipinos already make each one of them a champion," said Navarro.

The hosts also expressed excitement for the second season of "Showtime," which has been a source of entertainment and inspiration of many Filipinos.

"Where else can you see hosts, judges, crew, director, and the audience all game to dance and sing together? We are a family here and this makes us even more motivated to work harder in our second season," Curtis shared.

"Showtime The Finals" will be held at the Ynares Sports Center, Antipolo City, on Saturday at 10:15 a.m. on ABS-CBN. Watch for the bigger and louder season 2 of "Showtime" on July 26 after "Simply KC."