13th Mister International pageant reveals 10 Best In National Costume
Ahead of the 13th Mister International pageant, 38 contestants from around the world participated in the National Costume held at Resorts World Manila in Pasay City last February 17.
During the show, the contestants showcased their outfits inspired by their nation's unique culture. Each walk was also accompanied by explanations of what their costumes were meant to represent.
At the end of the show, the top 10 contenders for Best In National Costume award of the 13th Mister International pageant were announced.
Richard Montoya, Prime Events Productions Philippines Foundation (PEPPS) director for legal affairs, announced that the 10 finalists for Best in National Costume are: Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Venezuela, Korea, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Indonesia, Peru, Nicaragua, and Philippines.
Montoya said that the winner of the special award will be announced during the finals of the 13th Mister International competition at One Esplanade, Mall of Asia Compound in Pasay City on Feb. 24.
Mark Kevin Baloaloa, Philippine representative to to 13th Mister International contest, wore a Bakunawa-inspired costume created by award-winning fashion designer Michael Barassi.
Barassi said that the moon-eating dragon known as Bakunawa is a Visayan folkloric tale that focuses, not on a hero, but that of a community that had worked together to defeat a monster.
"The story of Bakunawa echoes of the ideals of bayanihan, of a community coming together to protect all that is important to them." Barassi said.
Armed with gongs and horns, the village was able to scare the Bakunawa into spitting out the remaining moon in the sky.
And by playing soothing music with their musical instruments, they sent the Bakunawa into deep slumber with the hopes of slaying the dragon. Thus proving that a community that works together as a whole, it is just as strong as any mythical hero, said Barassi.
Last Feb. 21, the contestants took part in the preliminary competition in Ilocos Norte. The Charity Gala Night will be held on Feb. 22. The grand finals of Mister International contest is set on Feb. 24. - ROBERT REQUINTINA
Comments