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MANILA -- Marvin Diamante from Laguna was named Mister International Philippines 2024 last June 30 at the FPJ Arena, San Jose in Batangas.

In his Facebook post, the newly-crowned king thanked his parents for their support. “I want to thank my family who always shelters me with the strength. I am grateful to have you and I hope that you still give your support as I compete for the upcoming Mister International 2024,” he wrote.

Diamante’s final answer captured the judges’ attention. “I joined a lot of pageantry. Yes, I won but mostly I lost. One day, I realized that in order for us to become a better person, you should start realigning yourself, embrace all the failures, hardship, and disappointments in life, and I do so. And I’m here in front of you, confidently ready to face all the challenges to become Mister International Philippines 2024,” he said.

“My advice to all, even though it took so long to achieve your dreams, please never stop dreaming, never stop on believing, because one day, everything will be worth it,” he added.

Diamante, who hails from Cabuyao City, also received minor awards — Mister Dermaworld and Options Philippines Ambassadors.

The actor and model is now set to represent the Philippines at the Mister International 2024, slated in November in Cebu.