BALANGA City – This component city of Bataan still considered Jessica Sanchez as Bataan’s Ambassadress to the World despite her failing to win the American Idol title in the finale Thursday.
City Mayor Jose Enrique Garcia III even invited Jessica to do her first concert in Bataan, preferably on top of historic Mt. Samat, when she comes to the Philippines.
“She will not only be performing in front of her kababayan but she is the Ambassadress of Bataan to the World,” the mayor said. “We in Balanga City are very proud of you Jessica,” he added.
Garcia said Jessica is considered as the best singer in AI Season 11.
The Balanga City mayor congratulated the Filipino-Mexican singing sensation. Garcia said it was a popularity contest and losing in it does not mean that she will not be successful. “Good luck Jessica,” he said.
The city government of Balanga is the first local government unit in Bataan to give tribute to Jessica when she was still among the Top 7. The city is 10 kilometers away from Samal, hometown of Jessica’s mother EdithaBugay Sanchez.
Viewers of the American Idol finale in Balanga City like on cue shouted “ay” when they heard the announcement that Phillip Phillips was the winner.
Some remained motionless for a few seconds as if pondering why their 16-year old kababayan did not win when expectations were so high.
The spectators led by Garcia watched the last minutes of AI at the Plaza Mayor de Balanga under blue tents because of the rains. They clapped heavily especially when Jessica had a duet prior to the awaited result.
A businesswoman paying her taxes to the city government temporarily left the taxpayers’ lounge and watched AI.
“Jessica pa rin kami because she has all the qualities of a good artist,” she said.
