Upcoming Filipino singing sensation Jan Francis Alinsonorin brought pride to the Philippines as he finished in the Top 11 at the prestigious Karaoke World Championships (KWC) World Finals, which were held in Logomo Turku, Finland, from Oct. 7 to 12, 2024.

The Karaoke World Championships has long been a prestigious platform for discovering raw talent, and the 2024 edition in Turku was no exception.

Participants from different cultures and nations gathered not only to compete but also to show their amazing talents to the world and to give the audience an unforgettable experience. Each performance reflected the diversity and uniqueness of each country, turning the stage into a vibrant melting pot of global talent.

The week-long event kicked off with a Parade and Welcome Party on Oct. 7, uniting participants from over 50 countries around the world to celebrate music, camaraderie, and international diversity. The evening was filled with excitement as finalists, including Jan Francis Alinsonorin, paraded with their national flags, proudly representing their countries. “It was surreal,” Jan shared. 

“Marching with the Filipino flag and hearing the cheers made me feel proud and grateful to stand among other aspiring singers from all over the world.”

The KWC World Finals' preliminary rounds took place the following days. On Oct. 8, Jan delivered a powerful rendition of Queen's iconic "Bohemian Rhapsody." His performance captivated the audience and judges alike, showcasing his vocal range, control, and stage presence.

On Thursday, Oct. 10, Jan returned to the stage for the second round, delivering a heartfelt rendition of the classic ballad "Just Once." His heartfelt performance showcased his versatility and vocal prowess, impressing the judges and securing his place in the next round of the competition.

The third and final preliminary round saw Jan deliver a captivating performance of "Lay Me Down," a contemporary pop song that allowed him to showcase his versatility as a singer. His rendition was energetic and emotive, which impressed the audience and judges.

In addition to their solo performances, all KWC finalists came together to sing the iconic Queen song “We Are The Champions,” which perfectly captured the event's spirit. This group performance reminded them of the unity and camaraderie that brought them together from around the globe.

Jan's journey at the Karaoke World Championships ultimately culminated in a remarkable Top 11 finish. His passion, dedication, and talent shone brightly on the international stage, leaving a positive mark in the hearts of many. Though he narrowly missed the top spots, Jan's achievement is a significant milestone for himself and the Philippines.

“Carrying the Philippine flag on the global stage is an honor. I’m grateful for the support I received back home and from everyone I met on this journey,” he said. For him, KWC World Finals is not just about competition but about proudly representing the Philippines on a global stage. His journey from the City of Naga in Cebu to Finland was fueled by months of preparation and support from his community and the partnership between The New Channel
(TNC) and PraXis Experiential, who have long celebrated the country’s deep love for music and performing arts.

"The New Channel believes in changing people’s lives through the stories we share online. It is amazing to see right before my eyes the power of music and its ability to unite people across cultures and boundaries," said Apple Esplana-Manansala, President of The New Channel and country partner of KWC Philippines. “TNC is honored to be the platform that helps elevate these incredible young, talented artists. We’re glad to meet a raw talent like Jan Francis, and we’re proud of what he has accomplished so far. We are excited to see him make waves in the music and the entertainment industry.”

The collaboration between The New Channel (TNC) and PraXis played a significant role in Jan's journey to Finland. Direk Gladys Basinillo of PraXis expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, “I’ve gained new friends from around the world and opened limitless possibilities. The past two weeks have made me appreciate more what we do in PraXis, promoting Pinoy Talents and specializing in Music Marketing.” “Thank you to Apple for being an incredible partner and co-producer on this unforgettable trip to Finland! Special thanks to Jan Francis for making us proud,” Basinillo added.

Elle Quan, KWC Asia Pacific director, also pointed out how happy she is now that the Philippines is officially back as a country partner at KWC. “The world has always been ready for Asian talents, and I’m grateful that Apple and Gladys paved the way for the Philippines to return to the KWC global stage. Jan Francis is a great representation of Pinoy's talent, and I see a great place for him on the world stage," Elle shared.

Aside from the intense competition, this week-long event also allowed Jan and other participants to immerse themselves in Finnish culture. They explored the picturesque city of Turku and bonded with fellow contestants, adding depth to their musical journeys and forging friendships beyond borders. “Turku is amazing—the culture, the atmosphere, the scenic views, and the people. I even got to try Finnish food, which was a fun experience. The weather was cold, but the warmth of your support made up for it,” said Jan as he shared his experience.