PH bets shine in Man of the World, Summit International pageants

Man of the World 1st runner-up Kenneth Cabungcal (second from right) stands beside Venezuelan king Sergio Azuaga (center) with (from left) 4th runner-up Sebastian Mora, 2nd runner-up Gwen Jeguozo and 3rd runner-up Fernando Padin. Image: INQUIRER.net/Armin P. Adina

Filipino candidates finished strong in international competitions held in the Philippines last month, with all three delegates in the “Miss,” “Ms.” and “Mrs.” divisions of the Summit International pageants held in Cebu finishing second in their respective categories, and Kenneth Cabungcal proclaimed as first runner-up in the 2024 Man of the World contest held in Manila.

The Negrense lad finished second to Venezuela’s Sergio Azuaga for the top title, but went home with the Best in Formal Wear and Mister Holiday Inn Express awards. The two men shared also the top slot for the polling for press favorites.

The international male tilt, organized by Manila-based Prime Event Productions Philippines Foundation Inc., saw 23 candidates compete in the sixth edition this year. The coronation show was held at the Winford Resort and Casino Manila on July 26.

Justinne Punsalang, a broadcast journalist who competed in the 2022 Binibining Pilipinas pageant, was first runner-up in the “Ms.” division of the Summit International pageants held at the Tambuli Seaside Resort in Cebu on July 20. Deborah Scott from the United States edged her out of the title.

The Filipino delegate also topped the social media polls for Best in Swimsuit and Best in Advocacy, and also received the People’s Choice award.

Ms. Summit International first runner-up Justinne Punsalang. Image: INQUIRER.net/Armin P. Adina

In the “Miss” division, the Philippines’ Maiko Ibarro also settled for the first runner-up spot. She was edged out for the crown by Italy’s Filipino-Italian delegate Sharon Idone, who was also proclaimed Best in National Costume, Best in Swimsuit, Best in Glamshot, Best in Headshot, and received the People’s Choice award.

The pageant also had a “Mrs.” division, where Filipino delegate Beatriz Cabañero was proclaimed first runner-up. She also topped the social media polls for Best in Swimsuit and Best in Advocacy, and received the Best in National Costume and People’s Choice awards. Australia’s Ranti Wardhanti edged her out of the Mrs. Summit International title.

The Philippines scored its first victory in the “Miss” division of the Summit International Pageants last year, at the competition held in Florida in the United States, through Kapuso actress AZ Martinez, winner of the 2022 Hiyas ng Pilipinas pageant.