Jessica Sanchez releases single for benefit of Yolanda victims

MANILA, Philippines – Being a half-Filipina, half-Mexican, Jessica Sanchez felt like she should do something to help the Filipino victims of super typhoon Yolanda.

So in a way to reach out, she released a single titled "Lead Me Home," the proceeds of which go to Red Cross for its rehabilitation and relief efforts to the typhoon victims.

Aside from this, Jessica also did an outreach program where she gave away free hearing aids.

Meanwhile, Jessica was also asked about her experience in singing the Philippine National Anthem during Manny Pacquiao's bout against Brandon Rios last November.

The "American Idol" finalist described it as "a great experience" in an interview Monday afternoon, December 9.

"I had two days to practice the song,” she recalled. "It was hard! And I know how much important to you guys to sing the anthem with the right tune, so I was kind of pressured. But I was glad that you guys approved of the way I sang it and I made you guys proud."

Jessica admits also that singing the Philippine anthem made her feel closer to her Filipino roots.

"I was like, 'yeah! I'm a true Filipino!' So it was so amazing, I felt so proud being a Filipino," she said.

She also felt the "responsibility" to sing it well.

"After the devastation in the affected areas, I was kind of have, not pressure, but responsibility to sing it perfectly," Jessica added.