Nicole Scherzinger visits impoverished Filipino families

Pop star Nicole Scherzinger has thrown her support behind the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) by visiting impoverished families in the Philippines.

The former Pussycat Dolls star, who is of Filipino heritage, posted pictures on Instagram.com of her trip around dangerous and overcrowded areas of Manila, where she met "inspiring" children living in extreme poverty.

Scherzinger spent a day with families based in the Baseco Compound and mingled with children battling hunger and disease.

She says, "I'm part Filipina so I have a strong connection with the country and feel I have a responsibility to do what I can and bring awareness to the dangers that Filipino children face every day. It's been so humbling to meet incredible, inspiring Filipino children who are living in really tough conditions.

"Simple things like going to school and learning about their rights is so important, not only in terms of changing their lives but it also keeps them safe and off the streets. There are thousands of kids in Manila who are living in heartbreaking conditions but it's amazing to see how UNICEF and their partners are trying to do more to protect children in danger."

Scherzinger is supporting UNICEF U.K.'s Children in Danger campaign urging fans to sign a petition aimed at British Prime Minister David Cameron to help end violence towards youths around the world.