The country’s most respected male pageant, Mister International Philippines (MIP) 2009, is now accepting candidates who will compete for a chance to represent the country in the prestigious Mister International 2009 (www.mistersingapore.org) to be held in Taiwan on Dec. 19. According to MIP Chairperson, Mike Lim, only 15 finalists will be selected this year to compete for the Philippine title on Oct. 14, 8 p.m. at the A Venue Events Mall (7829 Makati Avenue, Makati City). Interested parties may still come to the last two screening dates on Oct. 3 and 4, from 2 to 5 p.m., at the 360 Three Sixty Restaurant located on the 2nd floor of the A Venue Events Mall. For more information, please get in touch with MIP 2009 casting director, Chris.

This is open to male citizens of the Philippines who are single, at least 5’11 and 18 to 29 years old. Mister International Philippines will receive R50,000 and a round trip ticket to Taiwan, the First Runner-Up will receive R20,000 while the Third Runner-Up will receive R10,000. For a preview of the applicants, log on to www.misterphilippines.net.

This year’s pageant night will follow a fashion format featuring some of the country’s top mens wear designers: M Barreto, Jerome Lorico and Jeff Rogador. The 12 finalists will also show off their physique in swimwear by Ricky Abad. The highlight of the evening will be the Barong Tagalog collection of Barge Ramos. The pageant night is for the benefit of the Philippine National Red Cross Makati City Branch.

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Freestyle concert for Ondoy victims Saturday night

Premier local pop, R&B band Freestyle does its part in helping Typhoon Ondoy victims recover from last Saturday’s devastating downpour. The group is having a benefit concert Saturday night, 7 p.m. at Eastwood Mall, Libis in what is also the launch of its latest album “Playlist.” Part of the proceeds from the album sales on Saturday night will go to the Eastwood Foundation.

Released under Viva Records, “Playlist” presents Freestyle back to basics with romantic and easy-listening covers that people clamor for especially during live gigs. Listeners are in for a genuine musical treat with the band’s own heartfelt rendition of 14 popular love songs, reflecting a passionate flair that is clearly Freestyle’s. The “Playlist” includes “I Will Survive,” “There’s No Easy Way,” “Got To Be There,” “Suddenly,” “Take Me I’ll Follow,” “I Live For Your Love,” “Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight,” “Sara,” “Love’s Holiday,” “Til I Loved You,” “Sweet Baby,” “Easy,” “Truly,” and carrier single “I Can’t Find The Words To Say Goodbye.” 

Freestyle is currently fronted by the powerhouse vocal trio of Jinky Vidal, Joshua Desiderio and Mike Luis. Back-up men are lead guitarist Tats Suzara, bassist Rommel dela Cruz, keyboardist Nikki Cabardo and drummer Gerard Banzon.

“Playlist” is sponsored by Jam 88.3, 99.5 RT, Wave 89.1, 89.9 Magic, Mellow 94.7, Max 103.5, and the Manila Bulletin. The CD is now available at record bars nationwide and at www.opmonline.com.