Garcia will showcase Cebuano attire by Cebu-based designers in the Mr. Fahrenheit 2019 pageant tonight, March 30, to be held in Quezon City. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
Kevin Ponce Garcia will showcase Cebuano culture and pride as he represents the province tonight, March 30, for Mr. Fahrenheit 2019 at F Club in Quezon City
Garcia will be wearing a barong, which represents the beaches of Cebu. The barong is designed by Cris Cadungog.
Garcia will highlight the popular beaches of Cebu’s Bantayan Island, Camotes Island, Malapascua Island in Daanbantayan, Sumilon Island in Oslob, and the town of Moalboal.
Garcia says the barong has waves design, which is a timely coincidence with Marvel’s release of a new superhero, Wave, who is a Cebuana.
“Inspirations are the turquoise blue waters of Cebu beaches and Wave, the new Cebuana Superhero,” he said.
The 28-year-old marathoner will also wear a Sinulog-inspired costume, which is designed by Malayka Yamas, for the national costume competition.
“Cebu’s Sinulog Festival King represents a millennial version of a native warrior and a colorful eagle wings which is also evident in our festival logo,” Yamas told CDN Digital.
It is a native warrior’s body paintings which shows the artistry of ancient Cebuanos.
Yamas said the bamboo beads and gold accents prove that Cebuanos are eco-friendly and can attain progress by unity beyond diversity.
Mr. Fahrenheit is a pageant exclusive for gay men and bisexuals, which started in 2003.
The winner will be named Mr. Gay World Philippines 2019 and will represent the country in Mr. Gay World 2019 in South Africa on May 4.
Garcia, 28, identifies himself as a gay man.
He is from Barangay Pahina Central, Cebu City and works as an assistant contact center manager in a business process outsourcing (BPO) company in Cebu City.
Garcia advocates for mental health awareness in this national pageant.
“Because there is more to it than meets the eye. It tackles so many issues from depression to coming out,” he said.
“It is important for people and employees to seek professional counseling and guidance or if not, a support group who is ready to listen and give sound pieces of advice,” added Garcia. /celr