Around GMA

Article Inside Page

Jong Madaliday has finally claimed his sweet victory after years of struggle, pain, and perseverance, as he was declared grand champion of The Clash 2025.

On Facebook, Jong poured his heart out in a moving post that resonated deeply with fans and fellow dreamers.

“Alhamdulillah. From being a dreamer once defeated, to rising again as a champion -- every 'no' I heard only fueled the 'yes' I was destined for,” he wrote.

Jong recalled the challenges of his childhood -- growing up in a broken family, being labeled bugoy by neighbors, and moving from one school to another while battling loneliness and self-doubt. Life's hardships even forced him to stop schooling, while relatives dismissed him as someone who would never make it.

But through it all, music became his refuge. Still, the path was not easy. Jong first joined The Clash Season 1 in 2018, only to face defeat. That painful loss nearly pushed him to give up on his dream.

He admitted, "I became a frustrated singer, a dreamer close to giving up. Ang sakit matalo, lalo na kapag iniisip mong baka tama sila… baka wala talaga akong mararating."

What kept him going was the unwavering support of his online community, the “OME Family” on YouTube.

He stated, "Kayo ang nagbigay ng apoy sa pangarap ko. With every subscribe, with every comment like 'we want to hear from you,' 'kanta lang nang kanta,' at 'sali ka rito/dyan' -- you reminded me why I started. Hindi man tayo magkakilala personally, ramdam ko ang pagmamahal ninyo."

Now, seven years after that first heartbreak, Jong has proven that destiny always favors those who rise again.

“Kaya pala ako natalo sa Season 1, kasi ipapanalo ko pala sa The Clash 2025. To the Jong of 2018, it's okay. Cry it out, then rise again because one day, you will stand here as the Grand Champion,” he declared.

The proud son of Cotabato also dedicated his win to his family, his fans, and especially to those who share his struggles: “To every child with trauma, to everyone who grew up being called bugoy, to those who were doubted even by their own blood -- this victory is for you.”

With his triumph, Jong not only cements his place in the music industry but also becomes a symbol of resilience, faith, and Bangsamoro pride.

Meanwhile, here are some of the highlights of The Clash grand finals: