Besting ten other countries in the region.
On Saturday, November 14, millions of viewers around Asia tuned in to watch the inaugural edition of the Eurovision Song Contest Asia, which took place at the One Bangkok Forum in Bangkok, Thailand.
During which, representatives from 11 countries across Asia competed in the first Asian edition of the long-running international television music competition that originated in Europe.
It is organized by the European Broadcasting Union and is co-produced by Voxovation, together with S2O Productions and Thailand’s host broadcaster Channel 3.
The Philippines sent over Kapamilya singer Carmelle Collado, who won in the Philippine Selection Night last August with the single Sobra-Sobra.
She was up against Nyendra – Lhayi Semo (Bhutan), Aina Abdul (Malaysia), Junhee (South Korea), Thinia (Laos), MANG X DAOU (Thailand), Beatmosphere (Bangladesh), Tóc Tiên Pratik Himal Rai, Pratik Himal Rai (Nepal), Beck (Mongolia), and Monetrey (Cambodia).
In a fiery performance, the 19-year-old singer, who previously competed in reality singing competitions The Voice Kids and Tawag Ng Tanghalan, delivered a powerful adjusted version of the song—complete with choreography and stage presence.
During the voting process, Carmelle received the highest number of votes that she garnered from the juries of other participating countries. As per Eurovision rules, the Philippines’ own set of judges who are not allowed to vote for the Filipina representative.
As per the votes made by these juries, the Philippines led the chart with 93 points, which was followed by Vietnam with 83 points and Malaysia with 82 points.
Meanwhile, in the public votes round, a maximum of 120 points could be garnered by contestants, Carmelle got 118 to emerge as the first-ever champion of the regional contest.
After the competition, Carmelle shared in her interview with the official Eurovision account her emotions after bagging the win in the inaugural edition of the Asian franchise.
She said while holding the custom-made mic-shaped trophy, “I can’t believe it!”
“I’m really happy. I don’t know what to feel (but) mixed emotions. (I am) happy, excited, and nervous at the same time.”
“But I’m really grateful, especially to all the people who voted for me, I love you guys! Salamat po!”
