Ramiele Malubay: Will Pinoys and Asians make her 1st Asian-American ‘Idol’?

IN HER interesting post, “Idol Talk: The Pinoy Connection,” Vera H-C Chan wrote, in part, “…a University of Arkansas economist actually used ‘American Idol’ as a means to study racial discrimination in the labor market. He uncovered a ‘positive correlation’ between the race of the viewers and contestants when the competition got hot. In Malubay’s case, she has the backing of Filipinos in her hometown and in the Philippines in her pursuit. Given the small population (and the latter’s ineligibility to vote), Malubay’s appeal will have to transcend race. That may be exactly what both sides are hoping for.”

Let’s hope that Ramiele does indeed transcend race and get the support of a vast majority of Americans who vote on “American Idol.” Jasmine Trias nearly made it because she was able to achieve that. What many are saying is that Ramiele has truly what it takes to be an “American Idol” so with the combined support of Filipino-Americans (and they do not comprise a “small population” in the US), Asian-Americans and mainstream Americans, she may realize her dream of becoming the first brown “Idol.”

Kababayans, what do you think?