The spotlight blazed at Robinsons Galleria last night as the Karaoke World Championships (KWC) Philippines 2025 National Finals reached a breathtaking climax. After an electrifying evening of vocal battles, charisma, and artistry, Kathleen Sarmiento Follero, a pre-med student from Luzon who has been performing professionally since the age of 14, was crowned the KWC Philippines 2025 Champion.
With her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, Kathleen outshone her fellow regional winners, earning a unanimous nod from the judges and the honor of representing the Philippines on the global stage this November in Bangkok, Thailand.
The official results of the night were:
- 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 powerhouse panel of judges, including Apple Esplana-Manansala (KWC Philippines Country Partner & CEO of The New Channel), Gladys Rondina Basinillo (CEO of PraXis Experiential), Kiko “Kikx” Salazar (multi-awarded composer/producer), Abby Asistio (singer-songwriter and vocal advocate), and other respected figures in music and media, praised the competition as one of the toughest yet, with finalists displaying world-class artistry and showmanship.
The evening opened with a rousing OPM medley before contestants tackled three categories that tested not just vocal range but also stage presence, personality, and storytelling through song.
Since its inception in 2003, KWC has been more than a singing contest—it is a platform to prepare Filipino artists for the global stage. While the Philippines is known worldwide for producing powerhouse talents like Bruno Mars, Olivia Rodrigo, H.E.R., Jessica Sanchez, and many more, the nation has yet to seize the KWC global crown. This year, with Kathleen leading the charge, hopes are higher than ever.
Her victory is more than personal triumph—it’s a celebration of Pinoy pride, resilience, and artistry. As she trains to represent the Philippines in Bangkok, Kathleen carries with her the dreams of a nation eager to finally claim its first KWC World Championship title.
KWC Philippines is presented by The New Channel (TNC ) and PraXis Experiential. Major Sponsor: Hapee Toothpaste. Official Tech Provided: Sound Solutions Event Technologies
We would like to thank the following Regional Partners: Zeus 808 Marketing, YES FM Cebu, Blue Fish Asia Events & Marketing, Love Radio Davao, SM City Cebu, SM City Davao, Sta. Lucia Mall, Fora Filinvest Mall, Tagaytay. Official Venue Partner for the Grand Finals: Robinsons Galleria Ortigas
We would like to thank the following supporters: Unisol, Jollibee, Basecamp By Powermac Center, Puzzlebox BPO, Inc.. Yume Music, Piccadeli & Tiffany Chocolates, Gardenia Bakeries Philippines, Inc., Happy Mie Gardenia, Coffee Smile Gardenia, The French Baker, Yan! Inasal, Ei8ht! Restobar, Lorae Institute, Echomusic, Hey Moonshine and Ernesto by BarberBOY. Official Sports Apparel: Saucony. Official Clothing Partners: Obra Abra and Pinas Sadya. Official Car Partner: BYD, Solar Transport
MEDIA PARTNERS: The Manila Times, When In Manila, Julius & Tintin Show, Wazzup.Ph, Nognog In The City, Villagepipol, Be An Inquirer, Kumagcow, Bandera, Esports Inquirer, Azraelsmerryland.Com, Lifestyle.Inq, Scout, Preen, Nolisoli, Multisport, F&B Report, CDN Digital, Pop!, Blogapalooza and Cooltura.
For partnership, sponsorship or more information about KWC Philippines, visit Facebook thru https://www.facebook.com/kwcpinas or www.kwcph.com.
#KWCPhilippines2025 #KWCPhilippines #KWC2025 #KWCPHChampions
