Filipino singer Sofronio Vasquez III made history by winning the 26th season of “The Voice” USA, becoming the first Asian champion of the popular singing competition. The announcement, made yesterday, marked a groundbreaking moment in the show’s history.
The 32-year-old Vasquez triumphed over 55 other contestants in the season, which spanned 22 episodes. His victory was celebrated by his coach, Grammy-winning artist Michael Bublé, who debuted as a judge this season. Bublé had earlier expressed confidence in Vasquez’s win.
“What made me very emotional was realizing that Sofronio isn’t just singing for the Philippines. He represents Asians everywhere—Malaysians, Indonesians, Chinese, and so many others across the world,” Bublé shared in an interview with ABS-CBN News’ MJ Felipe. “Seeing someone who looks like them win the biggest singing competition in America is a powerful moment.”
Bublé’s first-time coach, Snoop Dogg, and returning judges Reba McEntire and Gwen Stefani joined him on the panel this season. Carson Daly reprised his role as the show’s host. Before the finale, the coaches described Vasquez as “the hope of the future.”
Before his rise to international fame, Vasquez had participated in local Philippine competitions, including “The Voice Philippines”, where he did not earn any chair turns, and “Tawag ng Tanghalan”, a popular segment on ABS-CBN’s “It’s Showtime”. He reached the semifinals in the latter competition.
After his victory, Vasquez shared a throwback clip from “Tawag ng Tanghalan”, showcasing advice he received from head judge Rey Valera during the show.
Filipino pride soared online as Tony- and Grammy-Award-winning artist Lea Salonga, a former coach on “The Voice of the Philippines”, congratulated Vasquez through social media. Salonga, who judged the first two seasons of the Philippine version of the show alongside Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo Mañalac, and Apl.de.Ap, shared a congratulatory art card honoring Vasquez’s achievement.
Vasquez’s historic win has spotlighted Filipino talent and provided representation for Asians on a global stage, inspiring aspiring artists worldwide.