Ifugao lad ready to champion culture, ‘bayanihan’ spirit at Mister Teen Philippines

Ifugao, Philippines – A pageant is more than just a competition; it is also a platform for change.

This is what drove the 20-year-old Garett Lyre B. Dulnuan to join Mister Teen Philippines, a movement dedicated to shaping young men into inspiring role models within their communities.

Garett, a proud son of Mayoyao town in Ifugao, stands tall not just as a pageant contender but as a passionate advocate for cultural pride and youth volunteerism. His advocacy is rooted in his upbringing, surrounded by the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit that defines his community.

“The people of Ifugao really inspired me. Growing up around a strong Bayanihan spirit made me want to do something more meaningful. I saw pageantry as a way to share that and inspire other young people to volunteer and work together,” he said in an earlier interview with GURU Press Cordillera.

Asked about his journey to Mister Teen Philippines, he said it has not been without challenges. He shared he struggled to maintain focus during preparations, often consumed by thoughts of what he could do with the title. Through time management and clear sense of purpose, he stayed on track.

With his experience in local and regional pageantry, from being crowned as Mr. Mayoyao National High School 2023 and Mr. Mayoyao Homecoming 2023 to securing a spot in the Top 10 of Mr. Grand Cordillera 2024, Garett consistently made it to the weekly Top 5 of the People’s Choice award based on the online voting.

As he stands among the 20 contenders representing their own communities, Garett is not only vying for the crown. He is rather laying the groundwork for a greater cause. Win or lose, he remains committed to establishing partnerships that uplift communities and promote the values he holds dear.

“I plan to continue pushing forward with my advocacy. I want to establish public and private partnerships that will create meaningful and lasting benefits for the community,” he said.

With the grand finals set for 6:00 p.m. tonight at the La Union Convention Center, Ifugao rallies behind its candidate who continues to prove that true leadership starts with heart, rooted in culture, and driven by a desire to serve.