Bontoc, Mt. Province – An Igorot whose roots is from Mt. Province is the Philippines’ first representative in the Mister Deaf Universe (MDU) 2025, scheduled to take place on October 9-21 this year.
Said pageantry, taking place in Europe, particularly in Batumi, Georgia, is a platform that meets the demands and goals of deaf women and men, at the same time offering a real stage or avenue for their creativity and work.
Ian Lester Dumalsin Kingat was announced on April 7 as the country’s representative to said pageant through Miss and Mister Deaf Philippines’ page.
In his interview with the GURU Press Cordillera, Kingat clarified that he is indeed deaf and emphasized his Igorot lineage and his hopes for more deaf people to be included in pageants, saying, “I’m deaf and pure Igorot. I hope [more] Cordilleran deaf people will join pageants.”
Kingat’s commendable achievements
Starting off his journey in pageantry, the then young Kingat's first pageant experience was in July 2008 at Saint Louis University in Baguio City, representing the College of Education.
Continuing his journey, Kingat recounted that he represented Mountain Province and Baguio City at the Mister Deaf Philippines-Universe 2024, where he earned the Second Runner-Up title. He also won the special award for Best in Casual Wear during the grand coronation on August 31, 2024, at Tanghalang Pasigueño, Pasig City.
36-year-old Kingat holds a bachelor's degree in education from Saint Louis University and majored in special education (SPED). The young Cordilleran is now a dedicated public servant, an administrative aide at the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Quezon City (DSWD-QC).
As he prepares for the prime pageant, Kingat asks for the support of Cordillerans to bring the region and the country as a whole to greater heights on the international stage.
An advocate for the deaf community
Carrying the responsibility as the voice of the deaf community and with a commitment extending beyond pageantry, Kingat advocates for supporting the vulnerable, a reflection of his profession as well.
When asked about his advocacy, Kingat said that he advocates for the inclusion of deaf people as normal people contributing what they have for the betterment of the country.
“I advocate for inclusion. I believe we all have the skill and strength to share with our country, the Philippines. Even those with disabilities can contribute too. I want all deaf people to include training and join sports events to represent the country in the future at the Olympics. Also, train and include the deaf in military training because we are able to protect our country, too. With proper acceptance, accommodation, and training, the deaf share full potential for the betterment of our beloved Philippines,” Kingat said.
.png)
