The six (6) guys above complete my Top 14

The 26 Hopefuls in Formal Wear (Photo credit: Lito Caleon for fabmanilaph)

While my forecast for the finals looks pretty much cut-and-dry, I actually have reasons in assigning the titles to specific candidates among the twenty-six (26) hopefuls.

My Sparta-cular 4 for Misters of the Philippines 2014 (left to right): Neil Perez, Adam Davies, Alexis Francis Martinez and Nicko dela Cruz

Neil Perez of Tondo, Manila is my choice for Mister International 2014 in Seoul. Aside from an interesting back story that would merit excellent publicity mileage here and in Korea, this Police Officer is actually one of the few most prepared and polished to put his best foot forward side-by-side foreign delegates. And with the competition commencing less than a month from now, our representative should be 100% ready to step up to the plate with only minimal tweakings required.

In the case of Mister Model International 2014 to be hosted by Punta Cana, Dominican Republic come November, Adam Davies of the Filipino Community in the UK should be a perfect fit. Aside from being one of the most physically well-bodied contender, he also has the innate charm and smarts (and a relatively underplayed seductiveness on stage) that should serve him well in the contest abroad. Personality needs very little modifications and he should be ready to project an extra confident self. But just one note. I hope that something can be done to conceal that crescent-shaped scar on his left upper shoulder so as to complete the unblemished look. November may be too soon, but I’m still positive that it can be remedied.

I have always seen Alexis Francis Martinez of Mabalacat, Pampanga as an underdog, but a potential titleholder right from the get-go. He with the constantly ‘smiling’ face (even if a good number of photos show his serious side), endearing personality, good height and body proportions – combinations that make up for winning package overall. And his attractive presence will be a great boost if he represents us in the Land of Smiles for Mr. Global 2015.

Among my four (4) final picks for the titles, it is Nickolo dela Cruz I initially considered as a strong spoiler. But after the Pre-Pageant last Wedensday night, I assigned him to Mr. Tourism International 2015 in Panama. With sharper styling and presentation guidance from the organizers and well-meaninged handlers, he could turn out to be one fine competitor. The nice physique is already in place so he won’t need to be a slave to gym training if he chooses to stick to his usual fitness routine. I can see a lot of upsides in this guy if he undergoes intensive grooming and polishing.

Now, from among the four (4) spoilers, Ichin Daclan looks to be ready to go for the kill if the opportunity presents itself in the final segments of competition. This Sarangani rep has a lot going in his bid. But since I see him more of a Mister International bet, I placed him as a mister-in-waiting to Neil Perez. I just want him showing a joyful facade more often than not, and not a model’s poker face. The trio of remaining contenders here – Judah Cohen of Fil-USA, Allain de Ocampo of Bocaue and Joseph Doruelo of Caloocan City – are like dark horses for victory.

Bernard Sumera is 15th on my list.

And if only a Top 15 will be called instead, I would whole-heartedly give the last spot to Bernard Joseph Sumera of Paombong, Bulacan.

Whatever the results will reveal, I sincerely hope that it won’t significantly differ from my personal assessment. Surprises are welcome, but not in excess.

The Misters of the Philippines 2014 Official Candidates posing in front of the Spousal of Mary and Joseph Chapel inside Club Balai Isabel in Talisay City, Batangas (Photo credit: Aski)

Best of luck to all the Misters! 😀