Filipino Man Crowned as the Most Beautiful Gay Man of 2017

A Filipino hunk was recently crowned this year’s Mr. Gay World 2017, winning the Philippines’ first-ever Mr. Gay World title.

John Raspado also brought home several awards from the pageant, which took place from May 5–10 in Madrid and Maspalomas, Spain, reports Rappler.

Over 40 contestants from all around the world competed for the title in a bid to become an ambassador for the LGBT community.

“Big Congratulations to John Fernandez Raspado for giving honor to our country and for winning Best in Swimwear, Best in Formal Wear, Mr. Gay World Closed Door Interview, Mr. Online Vote, Mr. Social Media special awards in Maspalomas, Spain,” wrote Mr. Gay World Philippines organizer Wilbert Tolentino on a Facebook post.

Raspado also confirmed the win with a message on the Mr. Gay World Philippines Facebook page just minutes after his victory.

“Thank you to the people behind MGWPO (Mr. Gay World Philippines), especially to Wilbert Tolentino, for always guiding me on my journey to success and to those who helped me backstage and my fellow candidates. Especially the delegates of Belgium and Venezuela, who were my roommates,” wrote in Filipino, translated into English by Rappler.

“This is is not only for my family but also for the gay men like me who have principles and a purpose to fight for,” he added. “Thank you, Lord God!”

Upon winning his local pageant last year, the 36-year-old entrepreneur said HIV awareness would be among his greatest advocacies if he wins the world title. He said that he has, in fact, counseled some people in the past, and would like to focus on health issues.