Filipino-Mexican singer Jessica Sanchez, who is currently in the Philippines with the rest of the American Idol Season 11 finalists for their concert on September 21, says that she would visit her relatives in the country if she had the chance. Jessica grew up in America, but her mother, Edith Bugay, hails from Samal, Bataan.

“My grandfather is here and my grandmother has traveled with us from the States. I definitely have lots of family here from Bataan. If I have any free time, I’d definitely go visit Bataan. I really want to,” she was quoted as saying in a Philstar.com article during a press conference at the Manila Hotel on September 18.

Jessica adds that she's grateful for the overwhelming support she has received from the Filipino community. “It means a lot! Even while I was in the States, while I was in the show, like I heard they were voting crazy for me, like on Skype or Magic Jack… (Filipinos) have really been a big part of my success. I am definitely appreciative of them.”

“That’s why I’m excited to be here… I wouldn’t have a lot of downtime, but the time that I do have, I want to learn (about the country),” she said.

An earlier article had reported that Samal Mayor Gene dela Fuente is making arrangements with Jessica’s manager and grandparents regarding a possible visit to her Philippine hometown. According to the mayor, Jessica will be given a hero’s welcome and a plaque of appreciation from the city council, should the visit push through.

Jessica has also confirmed that she will spend more time in the Philippines after the concert. “I’m actually staying here in the Philippines, after they leave, for a couple of endorsement deals,” she was quoted as saying in an article by PEP.ph. Jessica is the latest American Idol finalist to be tapped as an endorser of local clothing brand Bench, joining season 7 runner-up David Archuleta and season 3 finalist Jasmine Trias.


(Photo courtesy of PEP.ph)