Filipino singer Sofronio Vasquez was just announced as the champion of The Voice USA Season 26 earlier today, December 11 (PH time). He makes history by becoming the first ever Asian singer to win the prestigious singing competition.

Though one might think his path to victory would have been easy since he’s been earning praises since he started in the competition, it certainly wasn’t the case for Tawag ng Tanghalan alum.

Sofronio had tried several singing competitions in the country before hitting the jackpot in the US edition of The Voice. The singer recalled having auditioned in The Voice Philippines several years ago but was unable to capture the hearts of the coaches as no one turned their chairs for him during his blind audition.

“Sumali na ako sa The Voice Philippines walang lumingon sa akin and ten years later, napasali ako sa The Voice America and the naging four chair (turner) ako. Dati pinapangarap ko lang sana kahit di kami lingunan, kahit 0.1 second lang makita kami sa TV,” he recalled.

This didn’t stop him from reaching his dreams and he continued to pursue his passion for singing and touch the hearts of those who would hear him perform. In 2017, he joined Tawag ng Tanghalan where he was able to reach the semifinals.

Despite not making it to the final round of Tawag ng Tanghalan, he revealed Vice Ganda was one of the reasons he continued to dream bigger. He went on to show his vocal prowess to the rest of the world–– making sure that the Filipino flag is still with him in all of his performances.

In an interview with ABS-CBN News, the Filipino singer shared how he used his adversities in life every time he sings in front of thousands of viewers.

“Every time I sing, I just show off my vulnerability. Filipinos are used to having adversities in life, challenges, and of course struggles. But, me being there on stage, I just want them to know that it’s okay to not feel the best. It’s okay to have struggles, it’s okay to be questioning your capability but don’t ever forget that you have to stand up and be you because you deserve whoever you are,” he shared.

For him, conquering challenges despite the circumstances he faced was something he needed to do. He expressed his gratitude towards everyone who gave him the boost of confidence when he needed it the most.

“Sobrang nakakataba sa puso. Nakakataba ng puso na I was able to represent the Philippines and of course dito I was well welcomed and well-loved by my hometown. They are in full support and now, we finally did it,” he added.

Sofronio maintained that dreaming bigger will give you a better outlook in life and fate will definitely help you once you believe in yourself.

“As cliche at it sounds, talagang mangarap lang kayo kasi ako pinangarap ko siya back then. Yung mga aspirations natin, mga dreams natin, talagang ibibigay kung gusto mo talaga,” he ended.