Marcos honors ‘The Voice US’ winner Sofronio Vasquez in Malacañang

HONORED. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos meet with “The Voice US” grand winner Sofronio Vasquez in Malacañang on Wednesday (Jan. 8, 2025). Vasquez made history as the first Filipino and Asian to clinch the title of “The Voice US” grand winner, an achievement the President said not only made waves in the music world but also brought immense pride to the Philippines. (Photo: Bongbong Marcos/Facebook)

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos on Wednesday met with “The Voice US” grand winner Sofronio Vasquez in Malacañang.

Vasquez made history as the first Filipino and Asian to clinch the title, an achievement the President said not only made waves in the music world but also brought immense pride to the Philippines.

“Ang laking bagay nun. Hindi biro ‘yun (That is a big thing. That is no small feat),” Marcos said.

“Pinasikat mo na naman ang Pilipino. Sikat na naman tayo dahil sa ginawa mo (You made Filipinos famous again. We are once again famous because of what you did),” he added.

Marcos, a self-professed music lover, even joked about declaring Vasquez’s winning day a holiday in the entire archipelago.

In a heartfelt courtesy call to the First Couple, Vasquez shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings, working as a cruise ship singer, to finding his footing in the vibrant music scene of the United States.

The emotional meeting was also a family affair, with Vasquez’s family joining him to share in the moment of recognition.

The First Lady, visibly moved, wiped away tears as Vasquez delivered a special musical tribute.

“I’ve heard that ‘Imagine’ is one of your favorites,” Vasquez told the President, before launching into a soulful rendition of John Lennon’s classic, much to the delight of the First Couple.

He also performed “A Million Dreams,” one of his show-stopping songs from “The Voice US” finale.

In an interview after the meeting, Vasquez said he was overjoyed in meeting the First Couple.

He also bared plans of releasing a single within the first quarter of the year and to continue honoring Filipinos with his music.