Sofronio Vasquez honored in Malacañang

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos honored “The Voice” USA Season 26 Grand Champion Sofronio Vasquez in Malacañang on Wednesday.

Vazquez is the first Filipino and the first Asian to win the prestigious title.

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

The First Lady also lauded Sofronio’s achievements “You made us proud.”

Vazquez performed two songs before the First Couple and their guests. He sang one of Bongbong’s favorite songs Imagine by The Beatles and his winning rendition of A Million Dreams from the film The Greatest Showman.

The President’s sister Irene was also present during the courtesy call. She was joined by Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, and other officials.

Sofronio was accompanied by his family and also met with the First Couple.

In addition to his talent, Marcos also recognized his values of generosity and humility in terms of performing.

“You’re so generous. You're not stealing the show. It’s all about the music, it’s not about you. You’re humble. It’s not about making pasikat [fame-seeking], it’s about making the music sound good,” he said.

While he pursued a career in music, Sofronio Vasquez is a graduate of Doctor of Dental Medicine from Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental and practiced as a dental assistant in the United States.

Prior to his historic win in The Voice under Michael Buble’s team, he appeared in ABS-CBN’s It’s Showtime segment Tawag ng Tanghalan.