Who’s Who in Bataan – JESSICA BUGAY SANCHEZ

JESSICA BUGAY SANCHEZ is an American-Filipino singer who was the runner-up on the eleventh season of the reality show “American Idol.” Originally from Chula Vista, San Diego, California, she was born on August 4, 1995 to parents Gilbert Sanchez, an American-Mexican soldier, and Editha Bugay, a native of Samal, Bataan.

Jessica started as a singer at a young age. When she was 10, she performed at the famed Apollo Theater in Harlem, a venue where crowds pride themselves on booing people. Not only did she survive, but her version of Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” drew not one but two standing ovations. Whoopi Goldberg, host of “Showtime at the Apollo” that night, called her back onstage for more accolades from the famously combative audience.

She earned similar love as a contestant on “America’s Got Talent” the following year. Simon Cowell, a former judge of the show, said that Jessica was “one of the best I ever heard.” His words proved to be true five years later.

From the time Jessica Sanchez stepped in front of the American Idol judges composed of Jennifer Lopez, Stephen Tyler and Randy Jackson and sang her audition song, Aretha Franklin’s “You Make Me Feel Like A Natural Woman,” it was obvious the pint-sized teen was special — and a serious contender to win the Idol crown.

Jessica carried herself like a real Idol during the whole competition. She has been humble and respectful even when faced with elimination. She showed grace and finesse as a perfect ambassador of the show. Her dynamic rendering of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” moved all three judges, with Steven Tyler declaring, “You just may be the one.” Randy Jackson repeatedly named Sanchez as the “best singer in the whole competition.” Jennifer Lopez praised Sanchez’s pipes with a huge compliment, “Your voice is so different than anybody else.”

Jessica’s Idol journey also had bumps along the road. In Week Seven, Sanchez became the center for the most dramatic judges’ save in Idol history. Lopez sprinted to the stage, ripped the microphone out of Sanchez’s hand midsong and announced that the teen would be spared from elimination. Since then, Sanchez roared back with unforgettable moments.

Phillip Phillips won the Idol title with his hit song, “Gone, Gone, Gone.” But during the awards night, Jessica completely wiped the floor by delivering a gut-wrenching take on Jennifer Holliday’s “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going.” Her version drew a heavy endorsement from Holliday herself.

Sanchez sang before President Obama and guests at the White House barely a week later. She also played a short role in a hit television show, “Glee 4” and on “BTR,” just like season-six winner Jordin Sparks. Producers also vied to sign her as a recording artist, including Tommy Motolla who launched J.Lo’s singing career.

The top 11 Idols performed at the Araneta Center in early 2013. Jessica performed her hit sog before kababayans. Unfortunately, she was not able to visit her mom’s hometown due to her hectic schedule.