MANILA - Luis Manzano welcomed actress Kim Chiu as his newest co-host in the third season of "The Voice Kids".

In an interview with ABS-CBN News and other members of the entertainment press on Friday, Manzano said he is happy that Chiu "gets to explore another facet of this industry."

"Nasanay tayo kay Kim na nagda-drama, nagro-romcom, sumasayaw. Ito, we get to see her as a host," he said.

"Kami naman ni Robi (Domingo, also a host on 'The Voice Kids'), we welcome everyone. We hope and pray na she'll enjoy her stint with us. At sana, mag-enjoy ang mga televiewers dahil si Kim, isa 'yan sa pinakamakulit na tao talaga sa industriya," he added.

When asked to react to the issue that some people are questioning Chiu's ability as a host of "The Voice Kids", Manzano said: "Ganoon naman talaga. Kahit hindi mag-host si Kim, may mangba-bash sa kanya. I guess it's part of being Kim Chiu."

"But the fact that she has bashers means she is very blessed. Her bashers can't enjoy what she gets to enjoy every day."

Manzano went on to say that he believes Chiu will be a great host of "The Voice Kids".

"Bubbly at makulit [si Kim]. Sabi ko nga, 'yung nakikita kay Kim sa isang romcom movie nila ay times two pa ang kulit niya... and that's something that the kids need to see. Kasi this is already a very big competition, a very prestigious competition, so the fact lang na nandito sila, I'm sure kinakabahan sila, pati ang mga parents nila.

"So 'yung personality ni Kim ay makakatulong sa mga bata, right before they step on stage," he ended.

The third season of "The Voice Kids" will premiere on ABS-CBN on May 28.