Palace: Jessica Sanchez journey is just beginning

MANILA (2nd Update) -- Malacañang extended its congratulations to Filipino-American-Mexican singer Jessica Sanchez for her second place finish in the prestigious singing contest "American Idol."

Sanchez lost to 21-year-old country crooner Phillip Phillips who is the fifth male singer in a row to win the "Idol" title.

The "Idol" grand finale was held Thursday (Manila time) at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, USA.

"As she competed in American Idol, Jessica Sanchez obtained the loyal and enthusiastic support of Filipinos the world over. Throughout her long, arduous journey, people considered Ms. Sanchez a performer imbued with an extraordinary gift of music and heart," deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said.

"This is only the beginning for Ms. Sanchez whose incredible talent has been recognized and appreciated the world over," she added.

Vice President Jejomar Binay echoed the Palace's statement, congratulating Sanchez for making Filipinos proud.

"Jessica's amazing journey on American Idol showcased not just her talent, but the spirit of bayanihan shown by every Filipino who supported her," he said.

Still, Senator Franklin Drilon can't help but rued Sanchez's defeat.

"The future will be good to her given her talent. How I wish she won. I am disappointed but we respect the results," he said in a briefing. (Jill Beltran/Virgil Lopez/Sunnex)