In support of our troops

Aficionado-Perfumes and Personal Care president and CEO Joel Cruz continues to prove that he is not only an astute businessman but also a true philanthropist.

Recently, Aficionado, in cooperation with AFI JCS Foundation Inc., Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CRSAFP) and Jams Artist Production, held Awit sa Marawi, a fundraising concert for the benefit of the victims of the crisis in Marawi — the injured and fallen soldiers, their families and the displaced residents.

Staged at the AFP Theater in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, the concert showcased performances from the AFP Singing Soldiers, retired Navy ensign Mel Sorillano, Token Lizares, and many more.

The fragrance tycoon personally hand the symbolic giant check to the leaders of AFP. Not only did everyone have a superb time for such a worthwhile cause, the fundraising concert also exceeded its financial goal.

Congratulations to Joel and his hardworking Aficionado team for a successful benefit concert!

Greetings

Happy birthday to our celebrators today, Ernie Pantangco, former Senate President Edgardo Angara, restaurateur Emma Lagoc, Leslie Moncupa Severino and Ditos Alcain.

Advance birthday greetings to Cedie Lopez Vargas and former senator Bong Revilla, Sept. 25; Danny Dolor, Liza Nakpil, Marieliese Evaristo, Pilie Barrenechea and Henry Atayde, Sept. 26; Henann Group of Resorts chairman Dr. Henry Chusuey, former Philippine Ambassador to the Vatican Mercy Tuason and Mai Mai Cojuangco-Zini, Sept. 27; Wilcon SEVP and COO Rosemarie Bosch-Ong, Vicky Cuisia, Mari Caballero and Mina Paras, Sept. 28; Thelma San Juan and former Tourism Secretary Gemma Cruz-Araneta, Sept. 30.

Happy wedding anniversary today to Michael and Veronica Litton. May you share many, many more cherished years together.

So, how was your week?

(For comments and inquiries, please e-mail me at jjlitton@indanet.com.)