Sofronio Vasquez to sing national anthem at 2025 SONA
Sofronio Vasquez, winner of season 26 of The Voice USA, will sing the Philippines' national anthem at this year's State of the Nation Address.
In a news release by Malacañang, Vasquez had been tapped to lead the singing of Lupang Hinirang at President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth SONA scheduled on July 28 at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City.
"Selecting Vasquez, a multi-awarded singer known for his powerful renditions of patriotic and classical pieces, reflects the administration’s intent to blend tradition and excellence in this year’s SONA ceremony," Malacañang said.
"His participation is seen as a tribute to Filipino talent and national pride," they added.
Vasquez, who was born in Misamis Occidental and is now based in the United States, was crowned champion of The Voice USA in December last year after defeating finalists Danny Joseph, Jeremy Beloate, Shye, and Sydney Sterlace under the mentorship of Michael Bublé.
He took home the $100,000 (P5,801,950) cash prize and a record deal with Universal Music Group.
During the blind audition, Sofronio performed I'm Goin' Down and picked Bublé as his coach.
Sofronio previously shared that if he were to win The Voice, he would use the prize money to bring his Filipina mother to the US to provide her with a "better life and future."
Vasquez was a former contestant of It's Showtime's singing competition Tawag ng Tanghalan in 2019, finishing in third place.
The national anthem was previously sung by Blessie Mae Alipopo Abagat, who won three gold medals at the World Championships of Performing Arts 2024.
Marcos' fourth SONA will see him outlining his administration’s key accomplishments, policy priorities, and plans to improve the lives of Filipinos.
