Joel Cruz is it

MANILA, Philippines - Since the start of the 10-week run of GMA 7’s Celebrity Duets Season 3, Aficionado top honcho Joel Cruz showed his eagerness to win. He didn’t mind wearing girly costumes and performing catchy songs. He, too, didn’t lose heart when he failed to win the judges’ nod during one of his performances.

But all his efforts paid off. Joel was named the grand winner and took home the P1-M prize in last Saturday’s finale night. He bested two other finalists, Jomari Yllana and Akihiro Sato after each two-song performance. Joel’s rendition of In The Navy with Michael V and Electric Dreams with Mae Flores pumped up the crowd’s energy and instantly gained the approval of judges Freddie Santos, Danny Tan and Tessa Prieto-Valdes.

“The strategy works and the performance just keeps getting better and better,” Freddie comments.

“All because of charity,” Joel says when asked what inspired him to join the contest. “I’ve been doing charity work since 2004 and it’s hard to solicit money especially now that we’re in (economic) crisis. ‘Yung budget ko to help is not enough.”

Thus, Joel agreed without second thoughts to be one of the show’s contestants thinking that if ever he wins, the cash prize would be a great help to those in need.

“Wala akong bilib sa boses ko but I really tried my best to win kahit pa mag-mukhang babae ako or whatever,” he offers. “The prize will buy more wheelchairs and medicines.”

Joel will divide 100 percent of his prize to 20 charitable institutions; among them Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, San Vicente de Paul, PGH, and Hospicio De San Jose.

“I know that my purpose in life is to be an instrument to help others as God gives everything that I pray for like this one. I really feel so blessed,” he adds.

What are his plans after Celebrity Duets?

“As long as I live at hangga’t malakas ang katawan ko, I’m going to continue with charity work.”

No wonder Joel is blessed. The One above loves a cheerful giver.