Michael Bublé and Sofronio Vasquez / CONTRIBUTED

NEW YORK CITY – As many had predicted, the critics, fans and even online betting enthusiasts were right: Sofronio Vasquez, a Bisaya singer from Ozamiz City, won “The Voice” last night on NBC. 

This historic victory makes him the first Filipino ever to triumph in a major US singing competition – and the Filipino American community has Michael Bublé to thank for his success.

Bublé, a judge and mentor on the show, took a chance on the 32-year-old Vasquez, investing in the underdog who now calls Utica, New York, home.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

In the Philippines, Sofronio’s journey was challenging. He participated in Tawag ng Tanghalan (TNT) seven times without winning and also competed on “The Voice Philippines,” where he received no chair turns.

In a recent podcast interview with Over A Glass Or Two’s Jessy Daing and Jcas Castro, he shared his experiences, highlighting the stark contrast between his performance in the Philippines and his success in the US.

CONTRIBUTED

“Do you know why he wasn’t picked on The Voice Philippines?” asked ER nurse Derrick Hidalgo, a supporter from Queens, New York. “It’s because Sofronio Vasquez was destined for a bigger stage! Salamat, Sofronio, for a very special Christmas gift for the 7,641 islands… You are the Voice of Hope!”

Public school teacher Ram Buena echoed this sentiment. He told Inquirer.net USA: “The Lord knows when to uplift Filipinos through Sofronio’s singing talent. He deserves to make history as the first Asian and Pinoy winner of The Voice USA. Sofronio proves that we give the world our best! Mabuhay, Sofronio, and all the Pinoys who supported and voted for him!”

In the final round, Sofronio showcased his talent by singing Sia’s “Unstoppable” and “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman. He then shared the stage with his coach, Bublé, for a duet of “Who’s Lovin’ You” by The Jackson 5.

Sofronio Vasquez/FILE PHOTO

Fellow singer and “The Voice” alumna Cheesa Laureta could not contain her pride for Sofronio.

“What an incredible moment for Filipinos everywhere!” said Cheesa, who is currently based in Los Angeles dating Jake Zyrus.

“Huge congratulations to Sofronio! Your hard work, passion, and dedication have lit up the stage and inspired a new generation of Filipino artists. Wishing you endless success as you continue to shine. The world is yours – savor every second of it!”

Filipinos across the San Francisco Bay Area also rallied behind the Bisaya singer. Veteran performing artist Ophelia Sampang of the Parangal Dance Company praised Sofronio for having “an impressive voice that touches your emotions.”

She added, “I’m so happy for him and his family. We are proud of him! Sending best wishes to Sofronio on his new musical journey!”

Sofronio Vasquez / FILE PHOTO

Sofronio’s aunt, Alsol Natimdim, formerly from Cagayan de Oro and now based in Queens, expressed her overwhelming joy upon learning of her nephew’s victory.

“I’m so happy and proud because his dreams are all coming true,” she told Inquirer.net USA. “From the beginning of the live show, we kept reminding each other that regardless of the outcome, he’s already a champion in our lives. We surrender everything to the Lord Jesus Christ, and His plan for Sofronio is perfect. We owe our love, support, and prayers to the entire Fil-Am community, especially in New York.”

“Sofronio’s talent was never in question,” his cousin Chard Ocampo added. “I knew he was going to win. He worked hard for this. He is an inspiration to all dreamers and a perfect example of how ‘every rejection is a redirection.’ I’m so proud of him. He raised our flag, the Philippines, and he just made history!”

So what’s next for Sofronio now that he has won “The Voice?” He is set to receive $100,000 and a guaranteed record deal with Universal Music Group, along with the potential for royalties from future music sales.

Michael Buble and Sofronio Vasquez/CONTRIBUTED

In the words of Jessy Daing, “It’s truly humbling to have played even a small part in helping promote him during our podcast OAGOT interview.

“We were surprised that not many people recognized Sofronio before he made it to the Top 5. But now, the world finally sees what we’ve always known: his extraordinary talent, humility, and genuine heart. During our almost two-hour podcast with him, we truly felt Sofronio’s sincerity and kindness. God indeed works in mysterious ways. The rejections he faced in the Philippines weren’t setbacks; they were part of a greater plan. God prepared him for this moment, shaping him to step into the bigger version of the dream he’s been praying for—winning The Voice Season 26 in the US.

“We’re so proud of Sofronio! He made every Filipino around the world shine with pride. His life story is a powerful testament that dreams do come true.”

Want stories like this delivered straight to your inbox? Stay informed. Stay ahead. Subscribe to InqMORNING voslot

• amp
• Sofronio
• Vasquez
• voslot
• wins