Sobra-Sobra” was written by Nica del Rosario and Mat Olavides. The song focuses on misogyny, women’s empowerment and the pressure faced by Filipinas.
Its English and Tagalog lyrics address the negative comments women often receive. The song then turns that criticism into a message of confidence and self-worth.
The central idea is that women are not “too much” for pursuing their ambitions or simply being themselves.
The track also brings Filipino culture into its sound. It prominently features the kulintang, a traditional Southern Philippine instrument made up of small gongs arranged in a row.
This combination of contemporary pop and traditional Filipino music gives CARMELLE a distinctive entry for the new Asian competition.
Women’s empowerment
“Sobra-Sobra” was written by Nica del Rosario and Mat Olavides. The song focuses on misogyny, women’s empowerment and the pressure faced by Filipinas.
Its English and Tagalog lyrics address the negative comments women often receive. The song then turns that criticism into a message of confidence and self-worth.
The central idea is that women are not “too much” for pursuing their ambitions or simply being themselves.
The track also brings Filipino culture into its sound. It prominently features the kulintang, a traditional Southern Philippine instrument made up of small gongs arranged in a row.
This combination of contemporary pop and traditional Filipino music gives CARMELLE a distinctive entry for the new Asian competition.
First-ever Eurovision Asia
Launched in time with Eurovision’s 70th anniversary, the Eurovision Song Contest Asia is the first-ever Pan-Asian music contest, with a mission to unite cultures and creative communities beyond borders.
Martin Green CBE, director of the Eurovision Song Contest at the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organizer of the annual event said: “As we mark the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest, it feels especially meaningful to open this next chapter with Asia, a region rich in culture, creativity and talent.”
“This is about evolving Eurovision together with Asia, building something that reflects the voices, identities and ambitions of the region, while staying true to what has always made the Contest special.
“Eurovision Song Contest Asia will be shaped by the artists, broadcasters and audiences who make it their own, continuing our shared journey of being United by Music.”
The countries confirmed to be participating in the competition are the Philippines, Bhutan, South Korea, Nepal, Laos, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Malaysia.
Longest-running music competition
The Eurovision Song Contest has been organised by the EBU since 1956 and is recognised as the world’s longest-running televised music competition.
The competition has helped launch or boost the careers of major artists, including ABBA, who won for Sweden in 1974, and Celine Dion, who represented Switzerland in 1988.
The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest took place in Vienna, Austria, where Bulgaria achieved its first Eurovision victory with DARA and “Bangaranga”.
The 71st Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, in May 2027.
For the Philippines, however, the immediate focus is on Bangkok. CARMELLE and “Sobra-Sobra” will now carry the country’s hopes into the first Eurovision Song Contest Asia.
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