A home away from home

**media[15509]**EDITORS DESKTwo reigning international pageant kings — Manhunt International Kevin Dasom of Thailand and Man of the World Sergio Azuaga of Venezuela — are currently making the Philippines their second home as they pursue careers in show business.I had the opportunity to speak with Kevin and Sergio on separate occasions during photo shoots organized by popular shoe designer Jojo Bragais in Morato, Quezon City, recently.Both individuals have declared their intention to leave the pageant world after their reigns and embark on new ventures.“I’ve accomplished a great deal with it. I’m old now. I'm turning 33 next month. I need to focus on other things — it’s time to move on to the next stage of life. I want to give back to the next generation of candidates by providing them with training,” Kevin said.Kevin was fortunate to have joined Sparkle GMA Artist Center. Currently, he stars in the afternoon series “Binibining Marikit” alongside comedienne Nicole Budol.The Thai hunk admitted that he has bigger dreams; he is eyeing a future in Hollywood. However, it appears he will be staying in the Philippines for a bit longer after signing a long-term contract with Empire Philippines and Sparkle GMA Artist Center.“When setting goals or dreams, it is essential to dream as big as you can. Otherwise, why call it dreams or goals? Others call it unrealistic, but to me, that's good,” Kevin said.Kevin has been going back and forth to the Philippines since 2018. He loves returning to the Philippines because it feels like home.On the other hand, Sergio was busy with shoots and modeling gigs for several brands. He also hinted at pursuing a career in showbiz.“It’s an honor to be Man of the World. Having an international title is incredible! But it’s time for me to move to other projects and try different things. I don't want to get stuck with the same thing that I did last year. I want to show people that I can do other things aside from pageant,” he said.Sergio, 19, describes his journey in the Philippines as one of the bravest things he has done. Currently, he is accompanied by his mother in Manila.After his reign, Sergio vowed to learn how to speak Tagalog. “I want to learn Tagalog. I won’t do something I don't enjoy. There are so many possibilities. When I joined the pageant, I didn’t imagine that I would be with you here. So who knows what will happen next year? It’s a surprise,” Sergio said.Kevin will also undergo training to speak the local dialect. “After my taping in June, I’ll be taking up vigorous lessons in learning how to speak Tagalog at least two hours a day — something like that,” he said.It's heartwarming to realize that some foreigners have chosen the Philippines as their launching pad for their showbiz careers. This indicates they see opportunities here that they can learn from, ultimately leading to their success.So welcome to the vibrant city of Manila! We sincerely hope that your time here will be enjoyable and enriching.As you explore the bustling streets filled with rich culture and friendly faces, may this city inspire you in your pursuits.We wish you the best of luck on your career journey ahead — may it be filled with success and opportunity!(Robert R. Requintina is the Entertainment Editor of Manila Bulletin)