Kirk Bondad’s Mister International 2025 Win Sparks Filipino Pride in the Middle East

Filipinos across the Middle East erupted in celebration as Kirk Bondad of the Philippines was crowned Mister International 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, on September 25. Bondad, 28, a Filipino-German model and fitness trainer, bested over 40 contestants, becoming the second Filipino to claim the prestigious title after Neil Perez in 2014.

Filipino communities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah hosted watch parties and gatherings, waving flags and sharing messages of pride on social media with hashtags like #KirkBondadMisterInternational and #ProudPinoy.

Bondad’s multicultural heritage—born to a Filipino mother of Igorot descent and a German father—has inspired many. His previous accolades, including Mister World Philippines 2022 and a Top 20 finish at Mister World 2024, set the stage for this historic win.

Kirk Bondad’s road to the crown wasn’t paved in gold—it was forged in perseverance. After representing the Philippines in Mister World 2024 and finishing in the Top 20, he openly shared how bittersweet the outcome felt, acknowledging he hadn’t achieved what he’d envisioned yet cherishing the lessons and strength gained.  Undeterred, he pressed on, refining his purpose and embracing each opportunity—whether in national competitions or international pageants. That persistence paid off when, in 2025, he was crowned Mister International, finally achieving a title that once seemed just out of reach.  His win is not just about a crown—it’s proof that patience, self-belief, and resilience can turn past disappointments into moments of triumph.

The victory symbolizes Filipino excellence on the global stage and has strengthened the sense of unity among Filipinos in the region. As Bondad begins his reign, expatriates continue to celebrate not just his achievement, but the talent, resilience, and pride of Filipinos worldwide.