Award-winning tenor and The Voice USA Season 26 champion Sofronio Vasquez has been tapped to sing the Philippine national anthem at President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), Malacañang confirmed on Tuesday.
According to the Presidential Communications Office, Vasquez’s participation highlights the government’s commitment to “blend tradition and excellence” in this year’s ceremony. His presence is seen as a celebration of Filipino talent and patriotism.
Vasquez, who hails from Misamis Occidental and is now based in the U.S., rose to international fame last year as the first Filipino and first male Asian to win the American talent show. Before his international breakthrough, he was a finalist in the 2017 edition of Tawag ng Tanghalan and returned to place third in its 2019 all-star season.
The singing of the national anthem traditionally opens the President’s annual address before lawmakers, foreign dignitaries, and the Filipino public watching around the world. This year’s SONA will be held on July 28 at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.
Meanwhile, Vasquez is also gearing up for his first major solo concert in Dubai, scheduled for September 6, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The one-night-only event will feature his original songs like “Mahalaga” and “Shine,” alongside moving renditions of classics. Ticket prices begin at AED 299, with VIP tiers offering added perks such as early access and meet-and-greet opportunities.
