We’ve seen him before during last year’s Man of the World finale that saw Cao Xuan Tai taking home the crown where he was one of the spectators who would have thought that a year later, John Paul Ocat will banner the Philippines on what is tagged to be another Battle Royale in the Man of the World 2019 Pageant here in Manila.
Presented by Prime Events Productions Philippines Foundation, Man of the World Pageant will be from July 2 – 11, 2019 with the Finals Night to be held once more in the Filoil Flying V Arena in San Juan City on July 11. JP who is a product of the Vanguards Pageant and Talent Management Camp earned the right to represent the country after winning at the 2018 Misters of Filipinas Pageant. He succeeded his fellow Vanguard alumnus, Clint Karklins who almost bagged the crown last year and was awarded as 1st Runner Up.
Beyond his physique and stature is a man who has his advocacy highlighted even without the crown as early as last year. JP is an advocate of mental health awareness and has took part in causes even without the organization’s knowledge. Most of the time, if you go to his social media page – you would see that his posts marks his true emotions as his goal is always to help people get up on their feet and stay connected with one another beyond what we see in social media. A man worthy of being read on, which is why the blog started with Mister Philippines for the Man of the World Pageant – JP Ocat (we’ve tried to actually cut down questions to make sure that the chunks are relevant to your reading.) ‘
What has kept JP busy after winning Misters of Filipinas?
I have always been true to my words. I did some charity events, attended events where I could speak and share my wisdom and experience in the hopes that this will inspire people. Been to places and do things I never thought of doing in my life. It’s amazing! And I conditioned my mind that the rest of time to come will be crazier but fun. I can’t wait for Man of The World to happen soon!
We’ve notice that you’ve been an advocate for mental health awareness, how will you impart that to the competition proper which will start very soon?
We all go through things differently. While some candidates might be confident and comfortable, some might not be. While some can handle stress lightly, while others might breakdown, we all come from different backgrounds, I think it’s best I become more understanding and compassionate- about their actions and what they have to say and be mindful to never put anyone down. May it be their self esteem or their confidence, everyone deserves to be here. It’s important they feel that. We don’t know what everyone is going through behind that smile.
JP has also made it a point to share his blessings through charity works, below is one of his events with his JP Army and with the support of Vanguards founder, Yhuong Botor.
Are there any preparations you would like to share?
Well, aside from gym, walk, and other trainings I have done and am doing, I still maintain the mindset that I have to be what the organization needs and is looking for. I have to embody what a true Man of the World is. It’s not just about the looks or the wit, it’s about what you can give to the table and what you can do to make an impact. Living up to the ideals and values of the organization is something I always bear in mind. If everyone has that mindset, then clinching the crown is not impossible.
What makes you excited about this year’s Man of the World? We also note that you’ve been to Zamboanga for the press conference. Anything that you would like to try in Dipolog during the competition?
Meeting every candidate and going to places with them. You see, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. This is an experience for a lifetime and I will never be able to get to experience this again. So I am looking forward to every activity we will be doing. Dipolog is amazing! I love the food, I love the people. And I can’t wait to try and see more of its places. So when I get back to Manila and so as other candidates going back to their own countries, we have our personal stories to share. And this is something new. The Philippines is more than just what we see on TV. The Philippines is the 7,107 islands and Dipolog is definitely something to try!
Now on its 3rd Edition, you’ve seen the success of Chriz Dulagan (Top 10) and Clint Karklins (1st Runner Up), how are you keeping up with the tag JP is the ideal Man of the World for 2019?
While the previous gentlemen are amazing beyond compare, I consider their footsteps as my light. Their experience is something that guides me to be a better delegate. Also, I remind myself to just be myself because I am better that way. I think that by having a vision and through hardwork, you are an ideal man of the world. I am an ideal Man of the World.
Lastly, any message for your fans?
To my ever loyal, JP Army, to my Mom & my family, to Jenny and Sir Ron, and everyone out there, without you, I would not be here. This whole experience is crazy! Thank you for all the love and support that’s overwhelming. Hope to see you all on the finals and please, please include me in your prayers. I love you all!!!
There is always that love beyond JP’s words and we can attest that everything he mentioned here comes from the bottom of his heart.
JP is the Mister Philippines you definitely won’t want to miss – book your tickets to the 2019 Man of the World Pageant through http://www.ticketworld.com.ph
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