‘THE VOICE’ USA CHAMP HONORED IN MALACANANG

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos on Wednesday honored ‘The Voice’ USA Season 26 Grand Champion Sofronio Vasquez for bringing pride to the country.

The historic win made Vasquez the first Filipino and Asian to claim the prestigious title.

“Thank you sa iyo dahil pinasikat mo naman ‘yung Pilipino. Sikat na naman tayo dahil sa ginawa mo,” the Chief Executive told the Filipino champion during the latter’s courtesy call in Malacanang.

The First Lady recognized the prolific singer’s feat. “You made us proud,” she told Vasquez.

During the visit, Vasquez serenaded the President and the First Lady with their favorite song, “Imagine” by The Beatles, and his winning rendition of “A Million Dreams.”

President Marcos’ sister, Irene, was also present during the courtesy call, along with Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Gracia Frasco, and other officials.

Vasquez was joined by his family during the courtesy call.

President Marcos also lauded Vasquez for his generosity and humility.

“You’re so generous. Hindi ka nang-aagaw ng eksena. It’s all about the music, it’s not about you. You’re humble. It’s not about making pasikat, it’s about making the music sound good,” he said.

The President was referring to Vasquez’s performances.

Vasquez, a 33-year-old Doctor of Dental Medicine graduate from Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, thanked the First Couple for the recognition. “Laking tulong po talaga ng recognition,” Vasquez told the First Couple.