By Maridol Ranoa-Bismark
Licensed mechanical engineer Jupheter Franco from General Santos City was recently named grand winner of the first reality show-based male pageant Man of the Philippines.
Explaining that he wants to inspire others to reach their goal despite the odds, the family breadwinner added that the thought of loved ones who are relying on him pushed him to give it all.
Franco has joined other male pageants. But it’s only now that he went home with the top award. He believes it’s his experience that brought him to where he is now.
He also admitted that if he lost this time, Man of the Philippines will be his last project.
“I’m not giving up. I’m moving on,” he stated.
Now that he’s focusing on the his duties as pageant grand winner, Franco hopes to enhance his communication skills and try hosting. He’s also open to joining showbiz.
Rounding up the honor roll are Man of the Philippines Advocacy Sharuen Hafeel of Cebu City, Man of the Philippines Nationalism Rhenzwin Corpuz of Ilocos Sur and Man of the Philippines Integrity Jhun Lloyd Villagracia of Lapu Lapu City.
All four will represent the country in male pageants abroad. Franco will compete at the Mr. Continental World pageant. Corpuz will go to Bangkok for Mr. Supermodel 2024. Hafeel will compete in the Mr. World Heritage pageant in India. Villagracia will go to Jakarta for Mr. Culture International.
The prize package consists of P150,000 cash, P50,000 for shopping, P300,000 worth of aesthetic services, a brand-new ATV Quad Core bike, P150,000 worth of surgical enhancement, a month’s free use of a self-driven sedan, an all-expense paid trip to Thailand to compete in an international pageant, and a one-year talent management contract with Star Realms Productions.
This is the fourth edition of Man of the Philippines, which required that all candidates spend 10 days in the Forest Crest Nature Hotel as part of their judgement process.
