Viewers nationwide tuned in to the return of the top singing competition in the country, “The Voice Kids,” as the debut of its third season on ABS-CBN scored whopping national TV ratings last weekend and even placed atop the list of the most watched programs nationwide.

Based on data from Kantar Media, it garnered a national TV rating of 35.6% last Saturday, or almost double than that of its rival program on GMA, “Pepito Manaloto,” which only got 17.9%. Last Sunday, “The Voice Kids” also registered 36.6%, a solid 22-point lead over “Ismol Family’s” 14.1%.

The program also generated buzz online, as netizens went on Twitter to post their thoughts about the blind auditions. The program not only topped, but also dominated the list of trending topics in the Philippines and worldwide on Twitter, as more than 10 out of the 20 trending topics were about the show, the coaches, and artists.

The top-rating singing competition is off to an exciting start as coaches Lea Salonga, Bamboo, and Sharon Cuneta exchanged sharp remarks as they tried to recruit artists on their respective teams.

Team Lea or Familea has so far acquired Eleana, rapper-singer Peter, three-chair turner Yessha, and musical theater artist Noel.

Coach Sharon, meanwhile, has secured three artists, namely Iya, the youngest artist this season, devoted son Timoty, and kiddie folk dancer JP.

Kamp Kawayan headed by Coach Bamboo is standing strong with Xylein, who comes from Boracay.

Don’t miss the “The Voice Kids” every Saturday, 7:15PM and Sunday, 7PM on ABS-CBN or ABS-CBN HD (SkyCable ch 167). Catch its latest episodes on iwantv.com.ph or skyondemand.com.ph for Sky subscribers.