Indian by blood, Pinoy at heart

Pekanbaru, INDONESIA — An Indian by blood, but was born and raised in the Philippines, became a challenge to Karan Singhdole, who won the title last year for Man of the Year Philippines and gave him the opportunity to represent the country in the Man of the Year contest in this city Sunday night.

But being a Filipino by heart was an inspiration of Singhdole to win the Man of the Year title for the Philippines after a glittering finals night, besting other candidates from all over the world.

“I am really happy! I can’t believe that I won,” beamed Singhdole, still holding a small Philippine flag. “I have always wanted to represent the country internationally. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would actually bag the title.”

This indeed added another feather on the cap of Prime Event Productions Philippines Foundation, Inc. (PEPPS) as it continues to strive further to uplift male pageantry in the country through the celebration of masculinity with responsibility. Singhdole’s win follows that of Neil Perez who won Mister International 2014. Both now hold the distinction of being the first Filipino to win in their respective pageants.

Singhdole’s win not only meant another victory for the country. His victory also meant that he will be a spokesperson to the advocacy of the pageant, which is all about wildlife conservation.

The runners-up were Tarek Moaykel of Lebanon, first; Tim Bertrams of the Netherlands, second; Trânh Xuân Nhân of Vitenam, third; and Meirizal Rifa’I of Indonesia, fourth.