CARMELLE wins Philippine spot at Eurovision Asia 2026
Her entry, ‘Sobra-Sobra’, combines kulintang and kubing with Latin influences and a message about confidence and self-worth.
Bangkok will host CARMELLE as the Philippines’ representative for the first Eurovision Song Contest Asia on 14 November. The ABS-CBN artist will perform ‘Sobra-Sobra’ after defeating nine other contestants in the Philippine Selection Night held on 30 August.
Mat Olavides and Nica del Rosario wrote the song, incorporating the Filipino instruments kulintang and kubing alongside Latin influences. Olavides said the blend reflected the cultural influences behind Filipino music and its distinct identity.
Del Rosario pointed to CARMELLE’s high, powerful belting and fast rap delivery as central features of the entry. She hoped the performance would demonstrate the diversity of Filipino talent and said she believed the song could empower women throughout Asia.
The songwriters’ earlier work includes several BINI tracks: Olavides co-wrote ‘Salamin, Salamin’ and co-produced ‘Pantropiko’, while del Rosario’s credits include ‘Huwag Muna Tayong Umuwi’ and ‘Karera’. Del Rosario also has a credit on Sarah Geronimo’s ‘Tala’.
The competition has 11 participating countries. Besides the Philippines, the line-up comprises Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. Official Philippine broadcast partner ABS-CBN will carry the contest on its platforms on 14 November.
