Mr. World Philippines Kirk Bondad in his Igorot national costume. Miss World Philippines/Instagram

Kirk Bondad proudly showed his Igorot roots during the national costume competition of Mr. World 2024 in Vietnam.

The Philippine representative donned an outfit dubbed "Warrior," which aims to pay tribute to the rich heritage of Mountain Province. 

"He holds an armor crafted from water buffalo materials, ready to hunt with bravery and determination to protect his ancestry. His headpiece, adorned with the figure of the rice god, honors the agricultural livelihood of his people, with feathers that stand for the native delicacy of his community called 'pinikpikan,'" read a post on Mr. World Philippines' Instagram page.

"He represents the modern Igorot — a proud Filipino who is gracefully navigating changes of progress while remaining steadfast amidst the challenges of time."

On Thursday, Bondad took to Instagram to share the good news that he made it to the Top 20 of the Mr. World national costume competition.

He hopes that his fellow Filipinos will help him get to the top though online votes. 

"Now let's make it to the Top 1. Vote for me," he said, directing his supporters to the Mr. World website. 

"Proud Pinoy. Proud Igorot," he added. 

Bondad, a fitness coach and model, is born to a German father and Igorot mother. Back in August, he said he wants to make sure to introduce Igorot culture in the Mr. World pageant.

"As my mother's son, I see it as my duty to showcase the rich culture of the Igorots, and it’s an honor to represent my heritage," he said in a previous Instagram post.

"The Philippines is renowned as a top tropical tourism destination, but I doubt many people outside the country know about the Cordillera regions, like the City of Pines, Baguio," he added. 

The Mr. World 2024 pageant will be held on November 23.