Miss Universe Philippines Director of Communications Voltaire Tayag (center) with the Mister Pilipinas Worldwide candidates. Image: Facebook/Mister Pilipinas Worldwide
MANILA, Philippines—The Mister Pilipinas Worldwide contest has just introduced its candidates for the competition’s inaugural staging this year, and yet the contestants have already undergone a series of training sessions that covered a multitude of disciplines.
The requisite runway training was conducted by the contest’s national director, 2022 Manhunt International first runner-up Joshua de Sequera. And for the crucial question-and-answer round, which is the make-or-break segment of any pageant, the gentlemen received tips and guidance from lawyer Nad Bronce, who has trained some of the most memorable international female titleholders from the Philippines.
Twenty aspirants from different parts of the country and from the Filipino community of the United States are taking part in the first edition of the national contest that seeks the Philippines’ representatives to some of the most prestigious international competitions for men.
To prepare them for the physically demanding international arena, the organizers conducted an obstacle course training. “They’re building the physical and mental strength needed to compete on a global stage, determined to showcase their resilience and strength,” the Mister Pilipinas Worldwide organization said.
The contestants also had “media training” under Miss Universe Philippines Director of Communications Voltaire Tayag. “Many young individuals have little to no media exposure when they enter pageants, so it can be quite daunting to be suddenly thrust into the limelight. Media training prepares them for the onslaught of media attention from both mainstream and social media,” he told the Inquirer in an online interview.
“It’s equally important to know what to say and what not to say, reminding them of the importance of striking a balance between being who they are but also being professional in their interviews and postings as they are representatives of the organization and sponsors. It’s about teaching them how best to present themselves,” he continued.
Tayag said the candidates should be able to take advantage of the benefits of the trainings and workshops even beyond the pageant stage, developing integrity, responsibility and gratitude. “In the short term, I hope it makes them shine during the pageant. More importantly, I hope it motivates them to be better people who win in life,” he explained.
He said he found it “refreshing” to hear young men articulate their thoughts well, with depth and substance. “The Mister Pilipinas Worldwide candidates also have very inspirational stories to tell. I loved how funny and candid some were in answering questions. They were very grateful for the insights I shared with them. They are also very eager to learn how they could improve their onstage performance,” Tayag shared.
The 2023 Mister Pilipinas Worldwide contest, the first edition of the national competition, will proclaim the Philippines’ representatives to the Manhunt International Male Supermodel, Mister Supranational and Mister Global pageants. /ra