Singer-songwriter Rey Valera seemed to have an epiphany several years ago for The Voice USA season 26 champion Sofronio Vasquez when the latter competed in Tawag ng Tanghalan several years ago. On X (formerly Twitter), a netizen named kwitanai uploaded an old clip of what Rey said to Sofronio to comfort him.

“Bringing this back and putting it here for everyone to see kasi nagdilang anghel si sir Rey Valera. Hindi siya nginitian ni lady luck sa Tawag ng Tanghalan pero siya ang gumawa ng sarili niyang swerte and found his way to The Voice and won,” the user mentioned.

Sofronio joined the second season of Tawag ng Tanghalan and was bested by the eventual winner, Janine Berdin.

In the video, the Filipino judge recalled how the singer would always be alone backstage with no assistants.

“Tuwing makikita kita sa labas pag nagkakasalubong tayo, ikaw lang yung nakikita kong walang kasama–– wala. You’re all alone,” he shared.

“Hindi ko maintindihan why. You are your best friend. Ikaw ang mentor mo sa sarili mo. Ikaw na rin ang cheering squad mo at the same time,” he added.

Rey then gave some words of comfort for Sofronio and was positive that he doesn’t need Lady Luck in his future performances as he is destined to create his own path and will become a champion in the future.

“At kung hindi ka man ngitian ni Lady Luck ngayon, I’m sure dahil yun sa alam niya na ikaw gagawa ng sarili mong swerte at hindi mo siya kailangan because yung ganyan klaseng tao, you will always find your way,” he advised.

Netizens expressed having goosebumps after seeing the years-old video of Rey’s advice to Sofronio.

“Naalala ko ‘to. Nagkaron din ng impact sa’kin yung message ni Rey Valera. Sofronio, super proud kami sa’yo! Niready ka ng TNT para sa international stage. All those tears are now tears of joy! Sabi nga ni mareng @catrionaelisa rejection is redirection. Congratulations,” a fan wrote.

Sofronio made history earlier this week after becoming the first Asian winner of The Voice USA, beating several other singers.