Filipino Sofronio Vasquez made history as the first Asian to win Season 26 of “The Voice USA”, a popular television singing competition.
Representing Team Bublé, Vasquez, 32, claimed victory after receiving the highest number of votes from the audience. He secured the grand prize of $100,000 and a recording contract.
In an emotional speech before the announcement, Vasquez expressed gratitude to his coach, singer Michael Bublé.
“Michael… it’s so weird to say Michael, I call you Sir. Your mentorship is a blessing to me, to my family, and to all the dreamers out there. You open the doors for everyone. Thank you so much,” he said.
Bublé praised Vasquez’s achievement, calling him “the hope of so many people,” adding, “Not just in the Philippines, but Asians everywhere truly are looking at you tonight. So proud.”
During the finals, Vasquez delivered powerful renditions of “Unstoppable” by Sia and “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman, which made his name a trending topic on X both in the US and the Philippines.
He stood alongside fellow finalist Shye, awaiting the results. When his name was announced as the winner, Vasquez dropped to his knees, overcome with emotion. HIs journey to international fame began in It’s Showtime’s “Tawag Ng Tanghalan”, where he reached the semifinals.
Vasquez moved to the United States in 2022 to pursue dentistry but decided to try his luck in singing competition.
