ILOILO CITY — Young Ilongga singer Ziha Gabio has returned home a champion, capturing the Gold Award at the 13th Asia Arts Festival held in Singapore from July 12 to 18, 2026. Her victory shines a bright spotlight on Iloilo’s homegrown talent and inspires a new generation of young artists.
A Star Brightens on the International Stage
The competition, hosted at the School of the Arts Singapore, drew thousands of performers from over 20 countries. Ziha competed in the vocal category, where judges evaluated her pitch, emotional expression, and stage command. To secure a Gold Award, a contestant had to surpass a strict score threshold, and she delivered a performance that resonated beyond the numbers.
Her journey to this moment began years earlier on the streets of Iloilo, where she first honed her craft as a busker. Those early days taught her how to connect with an audience, a skill she carried onto the national stage as a standout contestant on The Voice Kids Philippines. Her unique ability to sing while accompanying herself on guitar captured hearts across the country and paved the way for this international achievement.
A Champion Rooted in Community
Before her departure for Singapore, Iloilo City officials extended their full support and best wishes to Ziha. Mayor Raisa Treñas expressed the city’s pride, noting that the young singer carried the hopes of every Ilonggo with her. That faith was rewarded with a gold finish that marks a career milestone for the rising star.
Ziha’s victory is more than a personal triumph; it is a validation of the artistic ecosystem in Iloilo. The city has long been a fertile ground for musicians, and Ziha’s success proves that local talent can shine on the world stage. She has become a beacon of possibility for other young Ilonggos who dream of pursuing careers in the arts.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The Asia Arts Festival has served as a global platform for artistic exchange since 2013, and Ziha’s gold award places her among an elite group of performers. Her achievement highlights the power of dedication and the importance of community support in nurturing young talent. Every young Ilonggo watching her journey now has a clearer picture of what is possible.
Ziha herself has remained humble, dedicating her win to her hometown and to all those who believed in her. She expressed hope that her story encourages more children to believe in their talents and pursue their dreams with courage. Her words echo the very essence of her music—sincere, heartfelt, and rooted in gratitude.
