Awit sa Marawi’ exceeds goal, thanks to Joel Cruz
When the Lord of Scent Joel Cruz conceived the fundraising concert “Awit sa Marawi,” his goal was to raise P3.5-Million for the benefit of those affected by the ongoing conflict.
link: https://entertainment.mb.com.ph/2017/08/17/awit-sa-marawi-exceeds-goal-thanks-to-joel-cruz/
PHOTO taken during the turnover of the proceeds of ‘Awit sa Marawi’ benefit concert shows from left: CRS Commander Ronnie Evangelista, VAdm Narciso Vingson , Joel Cruz, Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen Salvador Melchor Mison, Deputy Comm. Col. Edgard Arevalo
He was confident he will be able to raise that much, citing the many friends he has in high society.
Not surprisingly, Joel realized the goal.
In addition to the P3.5-Million the concert earned, Joel also shelled out P1-Million from his own pocket, allowing for a total of P4.5-Million.
After the two-hour concert, he immediately turned-over the donation to AFP-CRS Commander Ronnie Evangelista, Deputy Commander Col. Edgard Arévalo and Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison.
Joel, who is the president and CEO of Aficionado Germany Perfume, thanked all those who supported the concert, including the performers.
He organized the concert not only because he wanted to help those affected by the conflict in Marawi but also to showcase the singing prowess of some of our soldiers like RNS Melchor “Mel” Sorillano, the very first Singing Soldier Champion, Capt. Bayani Maxilo, Jr. , SSG Federico Andagan, Jr., Virna Liza Moreno and others.
The opening number in Part 1 of the program “Piliin Mo Ang Pilipinas” was performed by the Baguio General Hospital Nurses, while “Lupang Hinirang” was rendered by the 5th Generation.
“Sundalo,” the opening number in Part 2 was performed by the AFP Singing Soldiers.
Also among performers was veteran singer Token Lizares, also known as the “Charity Diva” given her many philanthropic efforts then and now.
Token, who helped conceived “Awit sa Marawi” with Joel, sang her version of “Love Story” and “I Who Have Nothing.”
Other performers include “Eat Bulaga’s” Boobsie Wonderland, who kept the audience in stitches with her funny and oftentimes irreverent antics; Gem Mascarinas, the “Tina Turner of the Philippines,” Jona Viray, Malu Barry, JV Decena, Haydee Manosca, The Angelos, Josh Marquina, Kiel Alo, and Jonathan Badon.