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AN audience of more than 300 applauded and cheered as 11 contestants strutted their stuff displaying talent, style and charisma in the Mr Pogi Philips 2008, male beauty contest.
Filipino, Indian, Pakistani, Bahraini, and Lebanese contestants were all striving for personal growth and to be crowned Mr Pogi a.k.a Mr Handsome in this the third annual Mr Pogi pageant.
The event was hosted and organised by Albert Gayo, Bahrain-based hair and fashion consultant.
Before the show he said: "Originally in 2006 this competition was planned for Filipinos only, but when we received many calls from other nationalities we could not turn them away and it became an international competition.
"The main objective of this competition is to create unity among different nationalities and a platform for their talents and personalities. Some want to go on to being models and build a career for themselves. This is a foundation for that.
"They will have to work on their public speaking, fashion, grooming and self-confidence. Contestants were coached on skin care, public speaking and ramp modelling.
"The Mr Pogi winner must attend charity functions when requested and act as a role model."
Eight judges of different nationalities headed by GulfWeekly columnist and Radio Bahrain DJ Marie Claire picked the winners after four exciting rounds of traditional wear, casual wear, special talent and question and answer.
After showing-off his break dancing skills and sophisticated suit, Bahraini Abed Abdullah, 17, a student at Riffa Secondary School, from Riffa, won the title of 'Mr Pogi Philips 2008' and best in the talent section.
He said: "I am thrilled and surprised. I think anyone could have won but I am honoured to be picked.
"I have always been into modelling and dancing and when I heard of this competition I immediately enrolled. It's a great chance to build up my portfolio."
Filipino-Bahraini, Khalid Isa Al Alawi, 16, a student at the Filipino School Bahrain, from Budaiya, bagged the first runner-up prize and came best in the casual wear section. He said: "I wanted to experience what it is like to be in a pageant. It was a lot of fun and I will never forget it."
Filipino Eugene Pascua, 27, from Gudaibiya, stole the show with his spectacular dancing skills and huge group of friends passionately cheering him on throughout. Florist Eugene landed second runner-up and the title for best in formal wear.
He said: "I have taken part in several pageants in the Philippines and wanted to experience it here in Bahrain.
Winners received electronic goods and gift items from sponsors such as Philips, Vistaland and Al Anwar. Mr Pogi also took home a $500 (BD189) cash prize, while the first runner-up got $300 and second runner up $100. Part of the proceeds made from the event will be donated to Filipinos trapped in Kish, Iran.
