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Kapuso singer Arabelle dela Cruz, known onstage as “Laguna Diva,” emerged as the grand winner of the Korean TV singing competition Veiled Cup Korea, besting 27 other contestants who performed anonymously behind a veil.

The fourth and final episode of Veiled Cup aired on February 1 on the Korean channel SBS, with actress Lee Da-hee serving as emcee. The judging panel was composed of Tiffany Young, 10cm's Kwon Jung-yeol, Ailee, Paul Kim, Henry Lau, and (G)I-DLE's Miyeon.

The competition's unique format required singers to conceal their identities and perform behind a veil, placing full focus on vocal ability rather than appearance or background. From the initial pool of 28 contestants representing different parts of Asia, only five advanced to the finals.

Joining Arabelle in the top five were Thailand's Bangkok Soul Man and Phang Nga Bay Fighter, Laos' Vientiane Red Hair, and South Korea's Gyeongsang-do Iron Voice. After the final round of performances, Dela Cruz was declared the overall winner, earning her the show's grand prize.

Following her victory, Arabelle shared her emotional reaction in a message aired on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, expressing disbelief and gratitude over her historic win.

“Hanggang ngayon po hindi ko pa rin napo-process nang buong-buo ang mga nangyari. Sobrang daming talented na tao ang sumali sa contest na ito mula sa iba't ibang parte ng Asia, pero tayo 'yung nabigyan tayo, 'yung pinalad na manalo.

"This is my first international competition and my first ever out of the country. And I did not expect anything, pero sobrang blessed at sobrang nagpapasalamat ako sa inyong lahat. Sa lahat ng mga taong nagtitiwala sa akin.”

Arabelle is a part of All-Out Sundays Queendom and was a grand finalist in The Clash 2025.

Veiled Cup Korea, often described as South Korea's answer to Eurovision, brings together singers from different countries to compete purely on talent. Dela Cruz's win marks a significant milestone not only in her career but also for Filipino representation on the international music competition stage.

Related gallery: Get to know Arabelle dela Cruz, Veiled Cup Korea's grand winner