‘The Voice’ Champion Sofronio Vasquez Discusses Season 26, Tribute to His Father, and His Return to Dentistry
Following his victory as the Season 26 champion of “The Voice,” Sofronio Vasquez is contemplating his journey so far as he looks ahead.
Vasquez, who was part of Michael Bublé’s team throughout the season, spoke with TODAY.com after being crowned the champion of the NBC singing competition on December 10. He mentioned that although it’s been several days since the win, he is still coming to terms with the experience.
Griffin Nagel / NBC
“Right now, it’s sinking in, and I’m close to really believing that I’ve won,” the 32-year-old said humbly. “I’m just filled with gratitude. It’s such a blessing, and honestly, I’m simply overjoyed.”
Growing up in the Philippines on Mindanao island, Vasquez and his family often faced poverty, but music brought happiness to their lives. He attributes his early passion for music to his father, whom he regards as his first mentor, as reported by NBC Insider.
Initially, Vasquez aimed for a career in dentistry, but after the passing of his father in 2018, he chose to pursue music—not just for himself, but to also honor his father’s legacy.
With the “Voice” title now achieved, he remarked that he would tell his father, “I think we made it.”
Griffin Nagel / NBC
Vasquez revealed that following his win announcement, his family in the Philippines visited his father’s grave, where a Bible verse engraved on the marker stirs deep emotions within him.
“It reads Timothy 4:7—I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith,” he reflects. “I believe that’s his way of saying ‘Congratulations. I knew you could do it, just keep your faith strong.’”
Looking ahead, Vasquez plans to return to his home in Utica, New York, to express gratitude to his community for their immense support throughout the competition. He has also received an invitation from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines to visit Malacañang Palace.
“I realize I didn’t fully comprehend just how significant it is for Asians to have representation on ‘The Voice,’ but they are all so pleased,” he shares.
While Vasquez hasn’t outlined any long-term professional ambitions, he remains open to the thought of returning to dentistry in the future.
“Michael Bublé advised me, ‘Buddy, you need to put that on hold for now because you have a lot ahead of you.’ But in my heart, I will always cherish the dental field, as I also have a passion for it,” Vasquez explains.
“So, I can enjoy both worlds—performing music and practicing dentistry.”
