Filipino-Mexican singer Jessica Sanchez visits the Philippines for the first time, giving her the chance to learn more about the culture of her mother’s home country.


Jessica is considered to be the youngest contestant to make it to the Top 10 of American Idol. She emerged as the runner up of AI Season 11. She was born on August 4, 1995 in Chula Vista, California. The eldest of three kids, her father is a Mexican-American from Texas and a U.S. Navy veteran while her mother is a Filipina from Bataan.


Earlier today, September 20, Jessica appeared as a guest on GMA-7’s noontime show, Eat Bulaga, to promote their upcoming concert.


According to the Eat Bulaga hosts, American Idol Season 11 winner Phillip Phillips was unable to appear on the show because he was not feeling well.


Phillip, Jessica, and the other American Idol Season 11 finalists--Joshua Ledet, DeAndre Brackensick, Elise Testone, Erika Van Pelt, Hee Jun Han, Skylar Laine, Colton Dixon, and Hollie Cavanagh--will hold a one-night concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on September 21.


Eat Bulaga host Allan K asked Jessica about her 45-day tour with the Top 10 of the reality singing competition.


“It’s been amazing! Like I said, meeting all the fans is the best part. And meeting all of you guys,” said Jessica, prompting the crowd to cheer.


“Me and the other Idols have talked it over already and we believe that this is going to be, by far, the best show that we’re gonna have.”


Allan K then gave a small gift to Jessica: an iPhone case. 


Ryan Agoncillo took this opportunity to ask Jessica if she has plans to return to the Philippines to have a solo concert.


Jessica said with a smile: “Nothing is confirmed yet but I would love to come back and sing for all of you again.”


Before she left the stage, Jessica agreed to sing for the crowd. Allan K then did a duet with Jessica for the song, “And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going.”


This Thursday, September 20, some of the AI finalists will be at the Alabang Town Center (with Jessica, Elise, DeAndre, Heejun & Erika) and Venice Piazza McKinley Hill (with Phillip, Colton, Joshua, Skylar & Hollie). 


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This Saturday, September 22, the Filipino-Mexican singer will also guest on Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho. Find out what the AI runner up has been up to after her stint on the American singing competition and watch how Jessica fares against one of the country’s most exotic delicacies: balut.