SOFRONIO Vasquez III, the first Filipino and Asian to win in ‘The Voice’ USA, was honored in Malacañang on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. 

No less than President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos paid tribute to the 32-year-old singer during his courtesy call to the Palace.

President Marcos Jr. acknowledged Vasquez’s success, saying that it was an achievement that not only made waves in the music industry but had also brought immense pride to the Philippines. 

“Ang laking bagay nun. Hindi biro ‘yun,” said Marcos Jr. 

“Thank you for making Filipinos famous. We are famous again because of what you did,” he added. 

The First Lady also expressed her appreciation for Vasquez’s achievements. 

“You made us proud,” she said. 

Aside from the First Couple, the President’s sister, Irene Marcos, was also present in the event, along with Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Cesar Chavez, Tourism  Secretary Christina Frasco, and other officials.

On the other hand, Vasquez was joined by his family, who also met the President and the First Lady. 

During the event, Vasquez gave those who were present a taste of his talent. He performed one of the President’s favorite songs—- Imagine by John Lennon. He also sang A Million Dreams from the Greatest Showman, the rendition which earned him the Grand Champion title. 

The First Lady was visibly moved by this musical tribute, wiping away her tears during Vasquez’s performance. 

Vasquez’s journey was one for inspiration. He started in humble beginnings, from working as a cruise ship singer, to eventually establishing himself in the music industry. 

He was also a graduate of Doctor of Dental Medicine from Ozamis City, Misamis Occidental and practiced as a dental assistant in the United States. 

Prior to his win in ‘The Voice’, he also joined ‘It’s Showtime’s’ Tawag ng Tanghalan. 

As of now, Vasquez plans to release a single within the first quarter of the year.