Since his victory on “The Voice,” Utica’s Sofronio Vasquez has been quite busy, but he always makes time for the place that helped him.

Vasquez moved to the Mohawk Valley from his native Philippines.

In past interviews , he said that despite facing challenges in his younger life, he enjoyed a wonderful childhood.

His love for music has been a constant companion throughout his life.

Alongside singing, he also had a strong interest in dentistry.

In the Philippines, he earned his doctorate in dentistry. When he relocated to the U.S., he continued to pursue his passion for dental health by working as a dental hygienist at a Utica-area dental office.

Before auditioning for “The Voice,” he had previously participated in the Philippine version of the show, where he did not receive any chair turns.

During his first performance on the U.S. version of the competition, he achieved a four-chair turn, a rare feat on the show.

He ultimately chose Michael Bublé as his coach.

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Vasquez has consistently acknowledged that it is Utica that has brought attention not only to him but also to the city he calls home.

During breaks from filming, he returned to Utica for a couple of local performances and met with the mayor.

Since winning the show, Vasquez has expressed his gratitude to the entire community for their support in voting him to the top.

On Tuesday morning, while speaking with Utica Mayor Mike Galime, he was presented with a key to the city.

“…it’s our entire community that was behind you,” Galime told Vasquez as he handed over the key, “and then we took it home.”

Vasquez said that wished the whole Utica community could have been there for the big win.