Jessica Sanchez, 'American Idol' Star to be Honored on Philippines Walk of Fame

The "American Idol" 2012 summer tour recently took its final stop in the Philippines, where runner-up Jessica Sanchez's warm welcome was followed up with an amazing honor. According to GMA News, Sanchez was lauded by Filipino fans and even received the news that the country was planning on honoring the 17-year-old songstress with recognition on the nation's "Walk of Fame" in Quezon City.

Sanchez landed in Manila, Philippines this week (along with her fellow Top 10 "American Idol" season 11 finalists) for the first and only international stop on the "American Idol" summer tour. Sanchez (whose mother is Filipino) was extremely excited to perform for her Filipino fans. During a Top 10 finalist press conference, Sanchez beamed, "I've never been out of the country before. This is such a delight going to the Philippines and traveling out of the (US) for the first time. Out of the whole tour, this is the most special for me. 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."

During the airing of "American Idol" season 11, Sanchez received much praise and support from her Filipino fan-base, even getting an endorsement from the nation's president, Benigno S. Aquino III.

Sanchez continued gushing her gratefulness during the Philippines press conference, stating - "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."

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Upon hearing the news that her name would be added to the Filipino Walk of Fame, Sanchez said, "I'm surprised by this, I'm just like I can't even process this right now but that's definitely awesome. I would love to meet [the host of the project] someday and actually thank him personally."

The "American Idol" tour will hit the stage at Quezon City's Smart Araneta Coliseum on Friday, Sept. 21. Reports have it that Sanchez plans on remaining in the Philippines two more weeks to experience more of what the country has to offer.