MANILA – Malacañang announced that award-winning tenor Sofronio Vasquez has been chosen to lead the singing of the Philippine national anthem during President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 28, 2025, at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City.

Vasquez, a Filipino pop singer originally from Misamis Occidental and now based in the United States, rose to international fame after becoming the first Filipino and first male Asian winner of the American talent competition The Voice in Season 26.

Prior to his global success, Vasquez was a finalist in the second season of Tawag ng Tanghalan in 2017 and placed third in the all-star edition of the singing contest in 2019.

Since then, he has performed on both national and international stages and is widely regarded as one of the country’s most accomplished vocalists, known for his powerful renditions of patriotic and classical pieces.

His selection to perform the national anthem reflects the administration’s aim to blend tradition and artistic excellence in this year’s SONA ceremony. His participation is also viewed as a tribute to Filipino talent and national pride.

The singing of the national anthem is a significant ceremonial component of the SONA, which sets the tone for the President’s annual address before members of Congress, government officials, foreign dignitaries, and Filipinos watching across the globe.

President Marcos is expected to outline his administration’s major accomplishments, policy priorities, and programs aimed at improving the lives of Filipinos in his fourth address to the nation.