‘I’m honored to represent my beloved province to the national stage’: 20-year-old from Santa Marcela is Apayao’s bet for Mr. Teen World Philippines

FEATURE

Santa Marcela, Apayao – A 20-year-old student from Apayao is making history as the province’s first-ever representative to Mister Teen World Philippines (MTWP) 2026, marking a significant milestone for one of the country’s least represented provinces on the national stage.

The MTWP is a national platform that empowers young Filipino men by promoting leadership, education, and advocacy. It also highlights their talent, confidence, and creativity while encouraging discipline and social responsibility.

Although there is no publicly documented record, Anthony Z. Vallejo of San Mariano, Santa Marcela, is believed to be the first to represent the province in the prestigious competition.

The iApayao talent

Anthony is currently a third-year student taking up a Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration. At just 20 years old, he has already participated in several local and national pageants, including Taer ti Santa Marcela 2024, where he was crowned winner, and Mr. Teen Philippines 2025, where he finished as one of the finalists.

In an interview with GURU Press Cordillera, the young talent shared that, as a student leader, he founded the organization Dungdung-ay TAER after winning the 2024 pageant. The group focuses on youth empowerment, rooted in the meaning “Taer Anthony, Empowering and Responsibility.”

Through his advocacy, he has supported communities by distributing 96 relief packs to typhoon-affected families and providing school supplies to students.

“My advocacy is on youth empowerment. The organization simply means Taer Anthony, Empowering and Responsibility. It’s all about hand-in-hand na tinutulungan yung mga nangangailangan. Last year, as part of my advocacy, nagbigay ako ng relief goods dahil sa mga dumaang bagyo noon, nagbigay din ako ng mga school supplies for students,” he shared.

Breaking barriers

The young advocate added that he submitted his application in February, where only 16 out of 156 applicants nationwide were selected as official candidates for the pageant.

He expressed pride in representing Apayao on the national stage, despite acknowledging financial challenges.

The provincial government, meanwhile, has expressed full support as Anthony prepares for the preliminary rounds on April 26.

“I’m very honored to showcase my beloved province to the national stage—our culture, the tourist destinations, and my fellow iApayaos. Actually, the struggle in these kinds of set-ups is the financial aspect, but I’m trying my part to seek support from our government, and they have been very supportive—full support. I’m already preparing for the preliminary rounds,” he said.

When asked about his message to fellow youth, he encouraged them to step out of their comfort zones. He added that despite obstacles and limited opportunities, young people should strive to lead with compassion.

Anthony’s participation highlights Apayao’s growing presence in youth-centered platforms that promote leadership, talent, and cultural pride. Beyond the title, his journey showcases the province’s rich culture, natural attractions, and resilient communities—often underrepresented on the national stage.