Filipino singer Carmelle has won the first edition of the Eurovision Song Contest Asia, making history at the competition’s debut event in Bangkok. The 19-year-old performer secured the title with her song Sobra-Sobra after competing against singers from 10 other countries. The winner was selected through a combination of national jury scores and votes from viewers around the world. Carmelle’s performance and strong support from audiences helped her finish at the top of the competition, giving the Philippines the first championship in the new Asian edition of the famous music contest.
Carmelle described the victory as a major moment for her career and said the song represented female empowerment. She also dedicated the achievement to Filipino women, explaining that winning on an international stage carried a responsibility beyond personal success. The young singer’s result attracted particular attention because she was the youngest contestant in the final. Her victory showed how a new generation of performers could use an international music platform to introduce their music and cultural identity to audiences in different countries.
Thailand’s duo Mang x Daou finished in second place with their song Aroma, while Vietnam’s Tóc Tiên came third with Em Tiên. Malaysia’s Aina Abdul secured fourth place, and Laos’ Thinla finished fifth. Contestants arrived at the venue in tuk-tuks and were welcomed by thousands of cheering fans. Bulgarian singer Dara, who won the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, also appeared as a special guest during the show. The event brought together performers from across the region and offered viewers a wide range of musical styles and stage performances.
The organisers hope the new competition will become a major international event for Asian music. The European Eurovision contest has often faced political disputes, boycotts and disagreements over participation, but the first Asian edition appeared to focus more heavily on music and performance. Music historians and observers said the event created an opportunity to showcase the region’s different musical traditions to a wider audience. Carmelle’s victory gives the competition its first winner and provides the Philippines with a major moment in the history of the new contest.
