As “The Voice Kids” Philippines kicks off another highly anticipated season, the stage is set not only for incredible young talent but also for a powerful team of mentors ready to guide the next generation of voices. Returning to host the show is the Dingdong Dantes. Returning as mentors are Julie Anne San Jose and Billy Crawford with new additions Zack Tabudlo and twin brothers Paolo and Miguel Benjamin of Ben&Ben fame.
Each team promises its own distinct flavor: “Julesquad” with Coach Julie, “Team Bilib” with Coach Billy, “Project Z” with Coach Zach and “Benkada” with Coaches Paolo and Miguel.
Julie Anne, who first experienced the spotlight as a child performer herself, brings both heart and wisdom to the mentoring table. Describing the experience as “pretty challenging,” she emphasizes the care needed in dealing with young, impressionable artists.
“It’s a very complicated job. It’s very dangerous and very fragile — just like the kids themselves,” Julie Anne said during the show’s press conference. “We try our best to be there for them and really guide them, because that’s our job — to encourage and inspire.”
Having started her career at just two and a half years old and facing rejection and inner struggles along the way, Julie Anne knows exactly what these contestants are going through.
“We always explain to them that this is still a competition. It’s not always about winning. It’s not always rainbows and butterflies.”
She adds that relatability is key. “We’ve all been there. That’s why we make sure we’re as honest with them as possible—because they listen, and they understand more than we think.”
Host Billy Crawford, now a father of two, brings a deepened sense of responsibility to the show, not just as an entertainer, but as a parent.
“Having kids is an advantage. Parenting is one of the most beautiful but toughest jobs in the world,” he shared. “These kids are sponges. They’ll follow anything you do, so mentoring them is a dangerous game.”
He believes the role of a mentor goes far beyond vocal coaching.
“It’s 20% music and 80% life. That’s what we’ve realized. Teaching them how to bounce back from failure, how to handle victory with grace—that’s what really sets them up for life.”
His life lesson for the kids? Resilience.
“Don’t dwell on the problem. There’s always a solution. If I can teach them that, then I’ve done something worthwhile.”
Having been part of the first “The Voice Kids,” Zack admits that being a coach feels surreal. “I wasn’t really prepared. There’s an overwhelming feeling coming into the studio for the first time. You can’t really prepare for things like this, especially if you never really expected it.”
Taking the double seats are Paolo and Miguel Benjamin of the band Ben&Ben. Known for their soulful music and brotherly bond, the twins are bringing that same spirit of connection into their mentorship.
“We try to teach them to value the time they spend with each other. Most of them build friendships here, and that becomes part of their support system,” shared Miguel.
He emphasized that beyond talent, it’s the people around them who will join them in their journey.
“A lot of these kids come from far away. Their families sacrificed a lot. It’s not toxic, it’s not pressure, it’s love and support. And when you have that, you’re already halfway there.”
This new season of “The Voice Kids” is shaping up to be more than just a singing competition, but rather a space for young performers to learn not just how to sing, but how to discover their own voice.
“The Voice Kids” will premiere Sunday, September 14, 7 pm on GMA.
