In a finale that no one will soon forget, a simple yet deeply emotional performance brought an entire nation to tears—and catapulted a humble construction worker from Cavite to stardom. C, real nRicardo Cadavero, was officgrand winner of Pilipinas Got Talent S on
His unique talent? Spinning a trumpo, the traditional Filipino wooden top.
A Spinning Toy… and a Spinning Miracle
Cardong Trumpo’s performance stunned the judges and the audience alike—not with pyrotechnics or flashy dance moves, but with the humble art of spinning a toy that many thought had long been forgotten. With a string and a hand-carved wooden trumpo, Cardong brought to life a piece of Filipino culture, skillfully performing gravity-defying tricks and balancing acts that made the trumpo spin on wires, broomsticks, and even on the tip of a finger.
But it wasn’t just the technical mastery that won hearts—it was the sincerity, passion, and quiet strength behind every move.
“This isn’t just a performance,” judge Eugene Domingo said through tears. “It’s a message. It’s history. It’s soul.”
Who Is Cardong Trumpo?
Before fame found him, Cardong was just another construction worker, laboring under the sun to feed his family. He lived a simple life in Cavite, earning just enough for daily meals. He never trained in dance, singing, or theater. All he had was a spinning top—a toy he learned to use as a child—and the dream of somehow making his talent matter.
“I used to pray that a kilo of rice could last my family three meals,” Cardong shared emotionally onstage. “Now, God has given me more than I ever imagined.”
Those words silenced the entire studio—and touched the hearts of millions watching from their homes.
The Performance That Changed Everything
The Season 7 grand finale of Pilipinas Got Talent featured eight finalists battling it out for the crown. Each contestant brought their best, including Femme MNL, an LGBTQIA+ dance crew known for their powerful routines, and Carl Quion, a soulful singer who had been a fan favorite throughout the season.
But when Cardong Trumpo stepped into the spotlight, spinning his wooden top with pinpoint precision and emotional intensity, something magical happened. The crowd erupted. The judges watched in disbelief.
By the end of the show, he earned a historic 99.5% combined score—the highest in PGT history—beating Femme MNL’s 50.4% and Carl Quion’s 47.8%.
A Cultural Resurrection
The trumpo, once a common toy among Filipino children, had slowly disappeared in the face of modern gadgets and global entertainment. But Cardong brought it back into the mainstream spotlight—not as a nostalgic memory, but as a living, breathing art form.
His victory wasn’t just personal—it was cultural.
“This is a win for every Filipino who grew up playing with a trumpo on the street,” said judge Donny Pangilinan. “And a reminder that the things we sometimes forget can still make us proud.”
Two Million Pesos—and a Lifetime of Hope
As the grand prize winner, Cardong took home two million pesos in cash. But when asked what he planned to do with the money, his answer revealed just how grounded he remains.
“First, I’ll buy rice,” he said with a small laugh. “Then I want to help my wife open a small store. And I’ll make sure my children go to school.”
There were no plans for flashy cars or celebrity parties—just family, food, and a better future.
A Nation Moved
Social media exploded with reactions after the finale. Clips of Cardong’s performance went viral within hours. Hashtags like #CardongTrumpo, #PGTGrandWinner, and #SpinningHope trended both locally and internationally.
On Facebook, one viewer commented, “He didn’t just spin a toy. He spun our childhood, our struggles, our pride.”
Even celebrities voiced their admiration. Kathryn Bernardo, who served as one of the PGT judges, wrote on Instagram: “You reminded us what true talent looks like—humble, honest, and rooted in love.”
What’s Next for Cardong Trumpo?
Following his win, several cultural groups and local governments have invited Cardong to perform at festivals and educational programs. ABS-CBN is reportedly considering a documentary about his life. Fans are also petitioning for him to become a national cultural ambassador for traditional Filipino games.
Yet, through it all, Cardong remains unchanged.
“I’ll keep spinning,” he said. “Not for fame. Just because I love it.”
More Than Just a Winner
Cardong Trumpo’s story is proof that talent comes in many forms—and that sometimes, the most powerful acts are the simplest ones, delivered with sincerity and heart.
He didn’t just entertain. He revived a forgotten tradition, reminded Filipinos of their roots, and showed the world that even the most ordinary person can do extraordinary things.
As the final confetti fell and the audience roared his name, Cardong held his trumpo close, knelt to the floor, and whispered one simple line:
“Lord, thank You.”
And with that, a nation wept—grateful, proud, and inspired.
