Last August 17 was more than just a competition; it was a testament to the raw, undeniable power of Filipino talent. The air at Robinsons Galleria was absolutely buzzing, a vibrant mix of nervous energy and electric excitement as the nation’s top vocalists prepared to lay it all on the stage for the Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippines 2025 National Finals. And let me tell you, it was a night for the books.

The Unforgettable Showdown

From the moment the lights came up on the spectacular OPM medley, you knew this wasn’t your average singing contest. It was a full-on masterclass in performance. The finalists didn’t just sing; they commanded the stage, pouring their hearts into every note across three intense song categories. It was a beautiful reminder that true artistry isn’t just about hitting the high notes; it’s about connecting with an audience and telling a story.

I was in awe of the talent, and I wasn’t the only one. The panel of judges—a true who’s who of the music and creative industries—had their work cut out for them. With music producers, celebrity photographers, and award-winning composers in the mix, they described the competition as “truly challenging,” and it was easy to see why.

A New Champion Rises

But as we all know, only one voice can be crowned the champion, and that voice belonged to Kathleen Sarmiento Follero. A pre-med student from Luzon with the poise of a seasoned pro, Kathleen has been a professional singer since the age of 14, and it showed. Her performance was nothing short of breathtaking, a perfect blend of technical skill and genuine emotion that made her a unanimous choice for the top spot.

Her victory isn’t just a personal win; it’s a win for all of us. Kathleen will now carry the weight and pride of the Philippines on her shoulders as she heads to the global finals in Bangkok, Thailand. While our nation has produced countless global music icons—from Bruno Mars and Olivia Rodrigo to H.E.R.—the international KWC crown has remained just out of our reach. But with a powerhouse like Kathleen leading the charge, The New Channel and PraXis Experiential, the incredible teams behind KWC Philippines, are more determined than ever to bring home that very first international champion title.

The Stars of the Night

A huge shoutout to all the finalists who poured their souls into their performances. The talent was simply off the charts.

• Champion: Kathleen Sarmiento Follero (Luzon)
• 1st Runner-Up: Jovie Loon (Visayas)
• 2nd Runner-Up: Joshua Caro (Mindanao)
• 3rd Runner-Up: Sultann (Greater Manila Area)
• 4th Runner-Up: Samantha Cedro (Wild Card)

A big congratulations to everyone involved—from the talented finalists to the organizers and dedicated sponsors—for making this event a spectacular showcase of Filipino artistry. Our journey to the world stage continues, and with Kathleen at the forefront, I can’t wait to see what she’ll accomplish.

Ready to see more? Follow KWC Philippines on their official Facebook page to relive the moments and cheer on our champion!