IN a final tableau of thirty-nine handsome hunks in royal blue suits on stage at the ballroom of Winford Resort and Casino Manila last January 28, Bacoor City’s Howell Adrian Liao Pantollana was proclaimed and crowned as King of the World Philippines 2024 in a well-presented inaugural finals show that also bestowed titles and runner-up placements to seven other finalists.
Pantollana was crowned as the first King of the World Philippines by Meg Perez, the new pageant’s founder and CEO.
What made his victory all the more sweeter was the fact that he defied the odds to win in a male pageant – he is in his prime (34 years old) and a proud single father of two adorable children.
“I can’t believe it! I am so happy!” Pantollana exclaimed. “All I wanted was to give my all in the competition, and now this is just amazing!”
It was never too late for this successful entrepreneur from Cavite. This was his first ever foray in pageantry, and while most people think his pageant entrance is a little late for his age, Howell proved critics wrong.
“It never crossed my mind that my age can be a hindrance. Instead, it was more of an advantage because I am bringing to the organization my life experiences in leadership, advocacy and philanthropy, and professionalism.”
In the final question, these aspects were further mentioned when asked what the difference is between being a Mister from being a King. Howell zeroed-in on leadership and his commitment to giving back and working with the organization in its mission and vision.
Howell also crushed the male pageant stereotype by being vocal from the start that he is a single father of two.
“I am a proud single parent. I want to set an example to my children, especially in the aspect of working hard to achieve goals and dreams,” Howell shared. “After working to make their lives comfortable, it was my turn to follow my dreams in pageantry. I am very happy that they, along with my family and friends, are very supportive. I love them so much, and this (victory) is for them.”
Howell’s journey to King of the World Philippines 2024 was not a walk in the park. It was a journey filled with hard work, late nights, and stress. It involved countless fittings, trainings and consultations on every aspect of the competition – from his look, his walk, his styling, even to his communication. His mentors from Vanguards headed by. Yhuong Botor made sure of that.
“I am so proud of him. All his hard work has paid off,” said Botor just as Howell was named the top winner.
Sharing victorious moments with Howell last Sunday were: Axell Chico of Bulacan, KOTWPH Model Discovery of the Year 2024; Ezekiel Joel Mora of Botolan, Zambales, KOTWPH Face of the Year 2024; Elvandrick Pede of Dumaguete City, KOTWPH Supermodel 2024;
Christian Joshua Villiones of Laguna, KOTWPH Tourism 2024; Rizmel Cabigao of Sta Rosa City, KOTWPH Charity 2024; Mohamed Emam of Pampanga, 1st runner-up; and Errol Nacion of Las Piñas City, second runner-up.
What’s next for the new king? After the celebrations, Howell will be training for the King of the World international finals in Manila in June.
