Pinoys in UAE star-struck with Jessica Sanchez

Even in the United Arab Emirates, Filipino expatriates are star-struck with 16-year-old Filipino-Mexican belter Jessica Sanchez as she made it to the final three of reality show American Idol's Season 11. Many Filipinos in the UAE are praying that Jessica emerge as the grand winner, according to a report Thursday on news site Gulf News. "She sounds just like Beyoncé and I'm sure she's going to win the title," said Dubai resident Angelica Solva, who said she is excited and hopeful about Sanchez's chances. Solva said that even without her "Filipino bias," she would still support Sanchez for her rendition of the late Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You." "(Jessica) really deserved the standing ovation from the audience and judges," added Solva, 28, who works as a bank teller. Another Filipina expatriate, choir singer Stella Rivera, 31, said Jessica is an inspiration. "We love Jessica. Even if she doesn't win, she'll always be an inspiration to all amateur and professional singers. Her vocal techniques are already so refined at such a young age. She pulls up her nuances and high notes very neatly and effortlessly. I was so moved when she sang Dance with My Father," Rivera said. Other Filipino fans of Sanchez said they are glad Jessica remains unfazed by the racism issues due to her Filipino-Mexican roots. "Jessica had a great start, but during a crucial moment, she didn't make it to the top seven when she got the lowest nation-wide votes. But the judges were able to ‘save' her and she deserved it," said insurance specialist Orlando Baldedara, 29. Filipinos at home have already been rooting for Sanchez, who will as the show's grand finale draws closer on May 23. Even Malacañang had voiced hopes for Sanchez's victory in the popular reality-based talent show. — LBG, GMA News