Mr. Gay World Philippines title holder, John Raspado, has won the new Mr. Gay World 2017 held at the World Pride 2017 in Spain.
Raspado’s win marks the first Philippine win in Mr. Gay World since the competition began in 2009.
Raspado, an online marketer and businessman, bested 20 other candidates from 5 continents in the overall judging which included the best in regional costume, swimsuit, and evening dress.
The Philippines’ bet also brought home the shashes for the Best in Swimsuit, Best in Evening Dress, Mr. Gay World Closed Door Interview, Mr. Online Votes and Mr. Social Media Special Award.
"Itong pagkapanalo ko ay hindi lamang sa aking pamilya ngunit para sa mga baklang katulad ko na may prinsipyo at layunin sa pinaglalaban (I offer this win not only to my family but to other gay men like me who engage in principled fights),” posted Raspado on the Mr. Gay World Philipines Facebook page.
Raspado’s life story was aired on Philippine television as a Lenten special. He won the Mr. Gay World Philippines title in 2016.
The Mr. Gay World contest is a pageant that supports the fight against sexual prejudice, injustice and equality for the LGBT community across the world. It aims to modernize the perception towards gays and break all stereotypes from public consciousness. In addition, MGWPO continues the advocacy of HIV/AIDS awareness and treatment assistance for everyone.
