The Filipino people have spoken — ‘Sobra-Sobra’ (‘Too Much’) by CARMELLE will represent the Philippines at the first-ever Eurovision Song Contest Asia in Bangkok, Thailand, this November.
A total of 10 up-and-coming artists vied for the chance to wave the Philippine flag on the international stage during the inaugural edition of ‘Philippine Selection Night’ on August 30.
The competition was organized by broadcaster ABS-CBN and hosted by comedian Vice Ganda.
The top three are as follows: ‘Mapadama’ by JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano in third place, ‘Broken Beyond Repair’ by SAGA in second, and the night’s winner, CARMELLE’s ‘Sobra-Sobra’.
The results were determined by three sets of votes, namely 40% from a professional jury, 40% by viewers voting at home, and 20% from those outside the country — also known as the ‘Rest of the World’ vote.
CARMELLE will perform ‘Sobra-Sobra’ at the grand final in Bangkok on November 14.
Women’s empowerment
‘Sobra-Sobra’ or ‘Too Much’ is written by Nica del Rosario and Mat Olavides.
The song addresses misogyny and women’s empowerment, with its lyrics — which are both in English and Tagalog — listing the negative comments often received by Filipinas and eventually coming to the conclusion that women are not “sobra-sobra” or “too much” for pursuing their dreams or simply existing.
The track also seamlessly incorporates the local culture into its melody, as it heavily showcases the ‘kulintang’ — a traditional instrument hailing from Southern Philippines that resembles small gongs arranged in a row.
First-ever Eurovision Asia
Launched in time with Eurovision’s 70th anniversary, the Eurovision Song Contest Asia is the first-ever Pan-Asian music contest, with a mission to unite cultures and creative communities beyond borders.
Martin Green CBE, director of the Eurovision Song Contest at the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organizer of the annual event said: “As we mark the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest, it feels especially meaningful to open this next chapter with Asia, a region rich in culture, creativity and talent.”
“This is about evolving Eurovision together with Asia, building something that reflects the voices, identities and ambitions of the region, while staying true to what has always made the Contest special.
“Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be shaped by the artists, broadcasters and audiences who make it their own, continuing our shared journey of being United by Music.”
The countries confirmed to be participating in the competition are the Philippines, Bhutan, South Korea, Nepal, Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Malaysia.
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Longest-running music competition
The Eurovision Song Contest, or simply called Eurovision, is the longest-running music competition in the world.
It has been held annually by the EBU since 1956, and has successfully launched the careers of some of the world’s most beloved artists today, including ABBA (Sweden, 1974) and Celine Dion (Switzerland, 1988).
Its 2026 competition, held in Vienna, Austria, saw Bulgaria’s first-ever win with DARA’s ‘Bangaranga’.
The 71st edition will be hosted by Burgas, Bulgaria, in May 2027.
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