MANILA, Philippines — Lea Salonga says the use of "awa" or pity to get votes for "The Voice of the Philippines" grand finals is "cheap."
Before making the statement in "Aquino & Abunda Tonight" on Tuesday, the international singer acknowledged that there will be some who may consider her words "too strong."
Lea explained that such behavior of contestants shows they do not have confidence in their own talent.
"[That they] don't believe in your abilities enough, that your abilities couldn't stand on its own na kailangan mo pa magpaawa para kumuha ng boto. Ayaw ko ng ganyan, e," she said.
The competition is down to its last four finalists: Rence Rapanot of Team Bamboo, Alisah Bonaobra of Team Apl de Ap, Jason James Dy of Team Sarah, and Leah Patricio of Team Lea.
On February 28 and March 1, the finalists will compete for the title as "The Voice of the Philippines" Season 2 grand champion.
The first season's winner, Mitoy Yonting, came from Lea's team. Lea, an award-winning Broadway star, indeed wants the winner of this season to come from her team, but vows to support whoever will win since for her, "it's gonna be a celebration of music, of singing and [of] artistry."
Meanwhile, Lea's eight-year-old daughter Nicole surprised her by performing the song "Tomorrow" in the February 22 episode of the show, earning the admiration of many.
Lea is happy to see that her daughter enjoys music and singing, but she thinks that it is more of a "hobby" for the young girl.
She also admits not having decided yet if she would want her daughter to follow her footsteps.
"Alam ko rin kung gaano kahirap ang maging isang kasama dito sa industriya," Lea said.