- Hernandez joins prominent celebrities with UNICEF Ambassador roles, including David Beckham, Francesco Totti, Ivan Zamorano, Luis Figo, Lionel Messi

MEXICO CITY, June 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is being released today by Marca Pais – Imagen de Mexico:

Mexican football star Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez has been named UNICEF National Ambassador for Mexico following a ceremony where he accepted the designation. Hernandez, who plays for Manchester United and the Mexican national football team, joins a list of world renowned football players who also serve on this role, including David Beckham, Francesco Totti, Ivan Zamorano, Luis Figo, and Lionel Messi.

"Mr. Hernandez is a young man who, through his own life, has demonstrated a clear ability to set and achieve his goals," said Susana Sottoli, UNICEF's Representative in Mexico in a press release. "He has been faithful to his principles, and keenly focused on his objectives. I trust that he will be able to pass his approach to the children and adolescents of Mexico. It is therefore a great pleasure for me to name him as our National Ambassador, and welcome him as he joins our efforts for Mexico's children."

In the UNICEF press release, Guadalajara, Mexico-born Hernandez stated, "Being a UNICEF National Ambassador is a significant responsibility. I am now a spokesperson for this great organization, and must call people to action in order to help millions of children and adolescents have access to the same opportunities and to have a better life."

According to a FOX News report, Hernandez is the first Mexican athlete to be named to the honorary post of UNICEF ambassador and the third Mexican to receive the honor. Singers Cesar Costa and Julieta Venegas were named UNICEF ambassadors in 2004 and 2009, respectively.

Hernandez is widely known for his commitment to community service and love of his home country. As reported by MexicoToday, Hernandez and his Manchester United teammates recently visited Christie Hospital in Manchester, where they toured the hospital and took time to visit patients and take photographs with them.  Hernandez also recently recorded a video for MexicoToday, highlighting his love and admiration for Mexico and its people.

SOURCE Marca Pais - Imagen de Mexico