Lyca Gairanod: From the Streets to the Stage, a Voice of Hope
“I don’t want you to disappear… you are the content of my heart, of my world.”
Who wouldn’t be impressed by Lyca Jane Epe Gairanod — the girl who once picked up a bottle in Tanza, Cavite, but became a symbol of hope and talent for the entire Philippines?
A Child with a Dream
Born on November 21, 2004 , Lyca grew up in a poor but happy family. Her mother, Maria Nessel Gairanod , was a merchant, while her father was a fisherman. At a young age, she learned to help out — singing to neighbors in exchange for a little money or food while also collecting bottles and old newspapers to supplement the family’s income.
He was not forced. At a young age, he voluntarily chose to work — a testament to his love and dedication to his family.
The Explosion of a Star
In 2014 , Lyca participated in The Voice Kids Philippines Season 1 which aired on ABS-CBN. During her blind audition , she sang “Halik” by Aegis , and she immediately caught the attention of Coach Sarah Geronimo . Although Coach Lea didn’t press the button, she admitted that Lyca and Sarah had a special connection — a connection that opened the door to success.
Lyca went through battle rounds, sing-offs, semifinals , and finally — the grand finals . In her performances of “Narito Ako,” “Call Me Maybe,” and “Basang-Basa sa Ulan,” she showcased her versatility, emotion, and natural talent. Through public voting, she was chosen — the first-ever grand winner of The Voice Kids Philippines.
From Bottle to Star
Lyca’s success is not just a personal victory — it is a victory for children who dream, for families who work hard, and for Filipinos who believe in their dreams. Because of her win, she received a recording contract under UMG Philippines , and entered the world of showbiz.
She played herself in Maalaala Mo Kaya , and was part of several ABS-CBN shows like Hawak Kamay . She was known not only as a singer, but also as an actress and a personality with depth and heart.
What is Lyca now?
From a young merchant, she is now a fully-fledged young woman . Despite some changes in her voice brought on by puberty, she continues to sing and fight on the stage of life.
In interviews, he showed off his girlfriend and shared his new stage as a young adult with his own home — a big leap from his previous life sleeping on the sidewalk. Despite his success, he never forgot his roots, and he remained humble and inspired .
A Voice of Inspiration
Lyca’s story is more than just a talent search winner. It’s a reminder that:
No child or poor family is without hope.
Hard work and perseverance bear fruit.
Family support is a wealth that goes beyond material things.
Poverty has never been a barrier for a child with heart, hard work, and talent. And today, Lyca Gairanod continues to inspire young people — that dreams, no matter how far away, can be achieved as long as they don’t give up.
Last Word
“I never wanted you to be gone.”
This is not just a line from a song. For many Filipinos, this is the feeling that surrounds Lyca. Every time we hear her story, memories of a child with a golden voice, a golden heart, and a golden dream come back.
