From the streets of Dasmariñas to the national spotlight, construction worker Ricardo Cadavero—better known as Cardong Trumpo—has officially been crowned the grand winner of Pilipinas Got Talent (PGT) Season 7, making history with a near-perfect score of 99.5% in the finale held Sunday, June 22, 2025.
Known for his masterful control of the traditional Filipino spinning top or trumpo, Cardo delivered a performance that stunned both the judges and the voting public, leaving fellow finalists far behind. LGBTQIA+ dance group Femme MNL landed in second place with 50.4%, while magician Carl Quion came in third with 47.8%.
“It’s such a unique talent,” said veteran judge Freddie M. Garcia (FMG). “Who would think a trumpo would win the grand final? It brought me back to my childhood days. Ang galing niya, ibang-iba kasi.”
Cardo took home the grand prize of ₱2 million, a life-changing reward he said would be used wisely.
“Ang gusto ko magka-bigas lang ako, tapos bahala na bukas,” he said emotionally. “Pero ito, sobra-sobra ito.”
The humble performer shared that his immediate priorities include paying off debts and helping his family relocate from their current home situated under high-voltage power lines.
“Unahin ko yung utang ko sir, ayokong magsinungaling. Araw-araw hindi pwedeng walang utang sir eh. Pagpasok ko ng trabaho, ipangungutang ko muna,” he said.
He also expressed joy at finally being able to support his children’s education.
“May isa akong anak, hindi ko naihabol sa pag-enroll. Problema kasi, wala talagang pera eh. Pero eto na ko ngayon… iingatan ko ito. Gagamitin ko sa magandang paraan. Hindi magsisisi yung mga tao na nagbigay sa akin nito,” he assured.
Cardong Trumpo’s act, which showcased precision, creativity, and cultural nostalgia, proved that Filipino traditional games can still find a place in today’s modern entertainment stage.
PGT’s Season 7 finale was judged by a star-studded panel including Kathryn Bernardo, Donny Pangilinan, Eugene Domingo, and FMG, and was broadcast live nationwide.
Meanwhile, Femme MNL took home ₱150,000 and Carl Quion received ₱100,000 for their runner-up finishes.
In his closing statement, Cardo was teary-eyed and full of gratitude: “Ang pangarap ko lang po [noon] yung isang kilong bigas ay magkasya sa tatlong beses sa isang araw, pero ngayon sobra-sobra po yung binigay niyo sa akin. Lord, thank you.”
With his unforgettable win, Cardong Trumpo spins his way not only into victory—but into the hearts of millions.
