Arroyo praises American Idol finalist

Arroyo praises American Idol finalist

MANILA, Philippines: American Idol finalist Jasmine Trias got
praise Tuesday from Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo,
who saluted her singing talent and called her an inspiration to
Filipinos everywhere.

The Filipino-American from Hawaii visited Arroyo at the
presidential palace with her parents, siblings, grandparents and
an uncle.

Trias gave Arroyo autographed photos, two boxes of macadamia
nuts and an orchid bud, her signature hair accessory during the
American Idol competition.

"It's good that as one of the youth, you have a lot of energy,
and the smile is always there," Arroyo told the 17-year-old
Trias. "And you're a family idol as well."

A palace statement quoted Arroyo as praising Trias for her
singing talent, for serving as inspiration for Filipinos and for
her family's resolve to instill Filipino values in their
children.

Trias was quoted as saying she hoped to have a day off before
she leaves Manila on Oct. 22 so she can enjoy the country's famed
beaches.

She arrived in the country last week to a rousing welcome from
fans and media, who dubbed her arrival as "Jasmania." She has
spent her time endorsing products and doing the rounds of talk
shows.

Trias made it to the top three in the popular American Idol
singing contest in May. Filipinos, like Hawaiians, closely
followed her performance and cheered her on. -- AP