Carmelle Collado hopes to connect global audiences through OPM at Eurovision Asia

MANILA — Carmelle Collado is hoping to introduce the heart of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) to a global audience as she represents the Philippines in the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest Asia.

Beyond the competition, the singer hopes “Sobra-Sobra” will resonate with listeners from different cultures and backgrounds, highlighting the universal appeal of Filipino music.

“Ang goal ko is to leave a deep sense of connection. Maintindihan nila Filipino music is deeply relatable. Sana ’yun maiwan ko sa kanila o tumatak sa kanila,” Collado said during her “Sobra-Sobrang Send-Off” held in Quezon City on Friday.

Collado admitted feeling the pressure of competing against talented artists from other countries.

“Nakaka-pressure, but since nakita ko ‘yung ibang co-finalists, magagaling sila. Kinakabahan ako, but I’m excited kung ano pang opportunities ang mangyayari, hindi lang sa akin but makilala din ang OPM,” she explained.

Despite some nerves, she said she believes her previous experiences in different competitions helped prepare her for Eurovision Song Contest Asia.

“All those experiences shaped kung sino ako ngayon. Iba-iba lessons natutunan ko, bitbit ko.”

The Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be held in Thailand on November 14.