Sofronio Vasquez Reflects on Rey Valera’s Advice After Winning The Voice USA
SOFRONIO VASQUEZ – After winning The Voice USA Season 26, the Filipino-American singer shared a heartfelt throwback featuring advice he once received from Filipino music legend Rey Valera.
On December 11, 2024, Sofronio reposted a fan’s Instagram video clip showing Rey’s comments on his past performance on Tawag ng Tanghalan, a Filipino singing competition where Rey was a judge. Before his success on The Voice, Sofronio competed three times on the show but never won the grand prize. His best finish was third place during the 2019 All-Star Grand Resbak edition.
In the video, Rey praised Sofronio’s determination and spirit, noting how he often saw the aspiring singer alone but never discouraged. Rey said, “You are your best friend. Ikaw ang mentor mo, sarili mo. Ikaw na rin yung cheering squad mo at the same time.”
He predicted that Sofronio’s perseverance would eventually lead him to success—even if it wasn’t on Tawag ng Tanghalan. Rey added, “Kung hindi ka man ngitian ng Lady Luck ngayon, I’m sure dahil yon sa alam niya na ikaw ang gagawa ng sarili mong suwerte at hindi mo siya kailangan..”
Touched by the repost, Sofronio captioned the clip, “Thank you, Lord.” Since winning The Voice, Sofronio has shared significant milestones on Instagram, including a photo with his coach, Canadian music star Michael Bublé. He also proudly posted a picture holding his The Voice trophy, writing, “believe that you can, and manifest it with your whole heart.”
Meanwhile, Sofronio made history as the first Filipino and Asian to win The Voice USA. Guided by coach Michael Bublé, he rose above tough competition to secure the grand prize of $100,000 and a recording deal with Universal Music Group. In the finale, he wowed the audience with his powerful vocals and heartfelt performances of “Unstoppable” and “A Million Dreams,” leaving a lasting impression on both judges and fans.