24/09/2025
OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE MISTER INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION (Philippines)
Few weeks ago, we received a message that a certain group will do everything to make sure that Mister International will not happen this November. However, we personally did not expect that it will escalate to this point. Our silence never means acquiescence, but we are studying carefully all moves because of the “players” behind this.
But what we need to address immediately is the claim of Mr. Balarin that he was sexually abused during the last competition. First, we have no knowledge that such incident happened until the time he got home to Peru.
His National Director relayed the information too late of a time such that it is impossible for the Organization to validate if indeed the incident took place.
Secondly, regardless of the delayed report, we confronted the person involved. He vehemently denied the allegation reasoning that (a) the said incident where the alleged incident took place is in the morning (b) the studio has no partition such that everyone can see what is happening (c) there are around ten (10) people in the venue.
Lastly, the alleged incident happened after the CONCLUSION of the competition.
While the Organization will not condone if the said harassment took place, we also do not want to invalidate the passion, dedication, and 10000% commitment of the Mister International Philippines Cebu Team who hosted the 16th Edition. They have done a wonderful task of introducing Cebu to the world!
Assuming without conceding, one individual cannot invalidate the hard work and good heart of the Mister International Philippines Cebu Team.
While we validate the right of Mr. Balarin to express his grievances, it is also dutiful on the part of the Organization to present a context as to which his claim is hinged upon.
As to other allegations, the legal team headed by Atty. Ernelson Trojillo, LLM is studying the actions to be taken so that matters are addressed in the right forum. Moreso, the Organization accepts the resignation of Mr. Balarin and is wishing him well in his future endeavors.
It is no secret that there is an existing animosity among pageant fans of the two (2) Mister International competitions. But certain pageant media outlets are encouraged to ask for our side so that fair reporting can be made. The court of public opinion is shaped by what media is feeding them. We simply ask that we be given our day in “court” or if the media can ask our side of the story.
Four years ago, when there was a split with Mister International, we became victim of this. It is not new that there are some media outlets (not all) who will capitalize on a bad claim to come up with a sensational scoop. Maybe to gain added followers or expand its reach. But since then, we called for a balanced reporting by asking our side.
After four years of shaming words uttered online, expletives thrown, and demeaning words that torched souls, we sincerely apologize if our existence has hurt you. With the hurt that we received, we release forgiveness.
Atty. Manuel F. Deldio
President
Mister International Organization