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Kirk Bondad in his national costume for Mister International 2025, designed by Patrick Isorena. Isorena/Instagram
The Philippines is known as the Pearl of the Orient Seas -- and the country's Mister International delegate, Kirk Bondad, certainly took it to heart.
The Filipino-German model and fitness trainer rocked an intricately designed national costume that takes inspiration from pearls -- not just literally, but also what it symbolizes for the country.
Bondad shared more about his look, which he called "Perlas Celestia" or celestial pearl, in an Instagram post on Wednesday, September 17.
"Perlas Celestia embodies the Philippines as a divine treasure, a sacred jewel bestowed upon the earth by the heavens themselves. This name reflects not just beauty and elegance, but also divine origin, royal power, and eternal light. A perfect representation of the Philippines as the Pearl of the Orient Seas," his post read.
"The pearl symbolizes purity, resilience, and transformation. Just as a pearl is formed through layers of strength over time, the Philippines has been shaped by centuries of history, challenges, and victories -- emerging radiant and unbreakable."
Mister International 2025 marks Bondad's second time on the global pageant stage after finishing in the Top 20 of Mr. World 2024 in Vietnam.
Just recently, he honored his province of Baguio through fashion at the pageant's gala night.
The finals night of Mister International 2025 will be held on September 25.