On 17 November at Holiday Inn Express Manila Newport City, Misters of Filipinas-Man Hot Star International RJ De Vera (Ronniel Absalud) received a rousing send-off party organized by the Misters of Filipinas Organization and Prime Event Productions Philippines Foundation Inc.

De Vera was all smiles as he faced the media for his official send-off party and press conference before departing for the Man Hot Star International pageant in Thailand.

 “Thank you to those who are supporting me in this journey. As I am aiming for a back-to-back victory for the Philippines, your unceasing support and love are my source of strength. This fight is not just mine; this is our battle. As the first Misters of Filipinas king from batch 2023 to compete, I promise to bring home the honor!” De Vera said.

“Winning Misters of Filipinas is already a dream come true. Winning the international title is another impossible dream, but with your support and God’s grace, nothing is impossible!” he added.

As he competes for the Man Hot Star International in Thailand, De Vera will strive to duplicate the feat of the inaugural winner and reigning Man Hot Star International, Jovy Bequillo, now based in Thailand.

The candidates of Man Hot Star are now in Bangkok and Pattaya for a series of activities leading to the coronation night on Sunday evening, 26 November.

For over a decade, Misters of Filipinas has produced Filipino kings who became inaugural winners in their respective international competitions — 2014 Mister International Neil Perez, 2016 Man of the Year Karan Singhdole, 2018 Mister Tourism Universe Ion Perez, 2018 Mister Model Universe Carlo Pasion, 2019 Mister Tourism and Culture Universe Yves Campos and 2022 Runway Model Universe Junichi Yabushita.

In Thailand, De Vera will be wearing suits created by Ryan Chris, and a national costume designed by Roy Aquino.

Aside from cash prizes, the winner of Man Hot Star International will receive modeling, acting and hosting opportunities in Thailand.