Mr. Gay World 2011 finals set March 13

THE PHILIPPINES will host the 2011 Mr. Gay World pageant, making it the first Asian country to stage the international competition.

To mark the event, reigning titleholder Charl Van Den Berg of South Africa paid the country a visit late last year to launch a campaign promoting HIV/AIDS awareness and education.

The “Red Ribbon” campaign brought Van Den Berg around the metropolis, speaking about HIV prevention together with representatives from the Department of Health and the United Nations Development Programme.

He also helped distribute red ribbon pins to increase awareness about HIV/AIDS and put up posters that seek to educate the public about the fatal disease.

This campaign is not new for the 28-year-old student. Back in South Africa, he is involved with Health4Men, a US-funded initiative focused on HIV/AIDS education.

Meanwhile, national pageant organizer Winstruck Entertainment announced that 2010 winner Sherwin Abuel has been stripped of his title due to “uncalled for behavior.” His first runner up, Marc Ernest Biala, will now represent the Philippines in the Mr. Gay World pageant.

Biala, a 24-year-old nurse, was among the heavy favorites during last year’s local search. He is now aiming to bag the country’s first win in the international competition.

Filipinos are invited to vote for Biala in an online search at www.mrgayworld.net. At press time, the Philippine delegate trails aspirants from Brazil, Australia and the United States. Fans may vote once per day.

Will Biala inherit Van Den Berg’s title to become the first Asian Mister Gay World? Find out as more than 30 gay men from around the world compete on March 13, 8 p.m., at Club Mwah in Mandaluyong City.

For tickets, call Winstruck at 635-6921 or visit www.mrgayworldphilippines.com.