From Misamis to the spotlight: Sofronio Vasquez reaches ‘The Voice’ Top 5

Photo from Sofronio Vasquez/Facebook

NEW YORK — Sofronio Vasquez, a Filipino singer, has made history as the first Philippine-born and raised contestant to reach the top 5 finalists on the US edition of “The Voice,” now on its 26th season. The announcement was made during the show’s first results episode Monday night on NBC.

Vasquez, who moved to Utica, New York – a city known for its colorful history – was astonished when his name was called as a finalist.

“Thank you so much to my Filipinos everywhere and in America who gave so much love and support,” he wrote on his Facebook wall. “Maraming Salamat to my hometown Utica, Upstate New York, Mohawk Valley, and everyone! One last voting next week for the finale. Please continue to pray for me. #TeamBublé all the way.”

Pursuing a spot on “The Voice” was not without challenges for Vasquez, a dentistry graduate from Misamis Oriental in the Philippines. His dream of becoming a dentist is currently on hold as he follows his passion for singing.

“I submitted audition videos virtually twice,” he shared with Jessy Daing and Jcas Jesse, hosts of the podcast Over a Glass or Two. “The first time, I didn’t hear back, but after submitting again, The Voice took notice, and the rest is history.”

Photo from Sofronio Vasquez/Facebook

Vasquez is no stranger to competitions and rejections, which have fueled his determination. He first joined “The Voice Philippines” a decade ago, where none of the coaches turned for him. “This year, I became the first contestant revealed on The Voice US. It made me so happy and proud.”

Despite numerous rejections in past competitions, Vasquez used each experience to improve his skills. “I’m not a belter and don’t have a falsetto, but those rejections taught me to study and develop my style.”

Initially moving to the US in 2022 to pursue dentistry, Vasquez discovered a path to “The Voice” through a virtual audition he found on social media.

A former contestant on It’s Showtime’s “Tawag ng Tanghalan” (TNT), Vasquez was determined to succeed. He participated multiple times, often facing rejection, but his perseverance never wavered. “It’s my dream to be known and share my music with everyone.”

Choosing Michael Bublé as his coach was strategic. “Michael Bublé is very popular in the Philippines and one of my idols. Working with him was a dream, and he never made me feel inferior.”

Sofronio Vasquez with coach Michael Bublé and fellow Top 5 finalist Shye (left). Photo from Sofronio Vasquez/Facebook

Grateful for the opportunity, Vasquez expressed his appreciation for the respect and admiration shown to Filipino singers in the US. “Even the producers and staff put you on a pedestal once they know you’re Filipino. It’s a compliment, and I want to show confidence.”

His experience on “The Voice” has been transformative. “I’m so grateful to be a top 5 finalist. We’re treated like celebrities, with our own wardrobe and stylists. I wish everyone could see how proud and happy I am to be here.”

Catch Vasquez and vote for him on “The Voice” on NBC, Mondays at 8 p.m. and Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET.