MANILA, Philippines -- News anchor Ted Failon on Saturday appealed for privacy and understanding and asked supporters to donate to charity in lieu of sending flowers to the funeral wake of his wife.

He also apologized for the misunderstanding caused by an earlier announcement that the remains of his wife, Trinidad Etong, will be open for public viewing.

"Nagkamali lang ng term," Failon said in an interview with reporters.

He asked family and friends alike to donate to the ABS CBN Foundation in lieu of flowers.

"We would like to appeal for your understanding as we grieve. I hope and pray that you respect our privacy," the anchorman said as he gave thanks for the outpouring of support for him and his family.

He refused to comment on the obstruction of justice case filed against him.

"When I stepped on the weighing scale this morning, I realized that I lost 20 pounds in three days," Failon said when asked by reporters if he was able to rest.