MANILA, Philippines – Joshua Oliveros’ life changed on Sunday, August 28, when he won the 3rd season of the Voice Kids. (IN PHOTOS: Emotional ‘Voice Kids PH’ win for Team Lea)

Joshua, who went to Manila from Antique with his father, won a house and lot, a recording contract, and P2 million. Now with singing career ahead of him through his mentor Lea Salonga, let’s get to know more about him.

1. Eleven-year-old Joshua started singing in Grade 1. Joshua’s dad, Joseph, said that he will usually join singing contests in their community. 

2. Joshua’s parents have been separated for 4 years and it’s his dream to see his whole family together again.

In a feature before his blind audition, Joshua explained his mom left 4 years ago after she and his dad fought.

During the blind auditions, Lea asked Joshua what was his dream was. “Sana po magbalikan na po si tatay ko po at si nanay ko po,” he answered. (I wish my father and mother could get back together.)

And during the finals night, Joshua got a special surprise when he was able to see his mother Maribel. She even accompanied him and Joshua’s dad onstage. 

In another feature that was aired during the finals, his coach, Lea Salonga, said, “Hindi bahay ang gusto niya, gusto niya ay tahanan (It’s not a house he wants, it’s home).” She that her own mom, Ligaya, went through the same experience, so she could relate with Joshua. 

3. Joshua and his dad are originally from Antique, but they moved to Marikina last year to join more singing contests.

As seen in a video aired during Day 1 of the finals, Lea visited Joshua and Joseph, and she got to see the small restaurant where he would sing after they left Antique to pursue his dream of becoming a singer.

He also gave a sample of Regine Velasquez’s “Dadalhin” during his karaoke time. It was also during that time that Joshua said he really wanted to win so his dad won’t have to work anymore. 

4. Lea was the only coach to turn for him during his blind audition. 

Lea turned at the very last minute, as Joshua sang the final note of “Habang May Buhay.” 

Joshua got emotional as she explained why she decided to turn for him, so Lea wrote him a note: “Dear Joshua, you are inspiring. Let’s inspire more people together.”

5. He’s set on using his The Voice Kids earnings to provide for his family. 

After he won, Joshua said, “Ipagbibili ko po ng pagkain namin po [ang nanalo ko] para mabuhay po kami at yung iba pong kailangan,” he said. 

(I will use [my winnings] to buy food for us so we that can live well, and the other necessities we need.) 

6. Joshua is the first boy to win in the Kids franchise, and his win is a first for Team Lea for The Voice Kids and second overall. 

Lyca Gairanod of Team Sarah Geronimo won season 1, while Elha Nympha of Team Bamboo won season 2.

Joshua’s win is also Lea’s second win for The Voice franchise, with Mitoy Yonting as her first back in season 1 of The Voice of the Philippines. 

With his career ahead of him, the music industry is looking forward to seeing what Joshua has to offer. Congratulations Joshua! – Rappler.com