“From Trash to Triumph”: The Powerful Journey of Lyca Gairanod, The Voice Kids’ First Grand Champion

May 30, 2025

Where Is Lyca Gairanod Now? A Look at the Life of the Nation’s First Voice Kids Champion

When Lyca Gairanod won the very first season of The Voice Kids Philippines in 2014, she didn’t just take home a title — she captured the hearts of millions. At only 9 years old, she stunned the judges and the public with her emotional rendition of Aegis’ “Halik,” while her real-life backstory — a young girl scavenging for recyclables to help her family — made her rise to fame all the more compelling.

More than a decade later, fans are asking: “What happened to Lyca Gairanod?” And the answer is as inspiring as ever.

Life After Stardom: A Return to Her Roots

Lyca’s win earned her multiple prizes, including a house and lot, a recording contract, and a trust fund. But years later, she surprised many by selling the home she won during the competition.

In an interview with Karen Davila, Lyca shared the heartfelt reason:

“My grandmother felt out of place in the new neighborhood. We’re used to a place with more people, more noise, more life. So we chose to go back home.”

Instead of living in luxury, Lyca used the money to buy a more modest home in their old barangay in Tanza, Cavite, where she once collected bottles and plastic to survive.

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Balancing Education and Passion

Far from fading into obscurity, Lyca has prioritized education, consistently earning recognition in school. In April 2023, she proudly walked across the stage during her school’s moving-up ceremony in General Trias, Cavite, where she received two academic medals.

Her dream? To become a teacher someday — so she can uplift children who, like her, come from humble beginnings.

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New Chapters in Her Career

In 2020, Lyca officially joined Viva Artists Agency, with the encouragement of her former coach Sarah Geronimo. While music remains her first love, Lyca expressed a desire to explore acting and dancing. Her goal? To one day star in a major project alongside her mentor.

“She’s the reason I’m here,” Lyca once said of Sarah. “I want to work with her again.”

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Going Global: Her International Debut

In mid-2023, Lyca reached another milestone when she joined hit OPM singer Arthur Nery as a special guest during his U.S. and Canada tour. Performing in cities like Calgary, Anaheim, and San Diego, Lyca impressed overseas fans with her vocals and stage presence — proving that her star continues to rise beyond the Philippine stage.

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More Than a Voice: A Symbol of Hope

Lyca Gairanod isn’t just the first champion of The Voice Kids Philippines — she is living proof that poverty doesn’t define destiny. With a microphone in her hand and a dream in her heart, she went from scavenging in the streets to singing for thousands.

Even now, at just 20 years old, Lyca continues to inspire a new generation of Filipinos with her humility, perseverance, and unwavering love for her family and community.

Related Articles You Might Enjoy:

Lyca Gairanod Sells Competition Prize House to Return to Roots
Where Are They Now: Voice Kids PH Finalists Over the Years
Lyca Gairanod’s Global Tour with Arthur Nery Impresses Fans Abroad
Lyca’s Journey with Viva and Her Dreams with Sarah Geronimo