30/10/2025
Of course, here also the winning answer of Mister MASTS 2025 - Carl Perez from Western Mindanao State University. His words spoke volumes and earned him the top spot!
Question: Mindanao's 'tri-people' heritage-the Lumad, the Moro, and the Christian settlers-has created some of our nation's most vibrant and powerful forms of art, from the epic Darangen to the sacred T'nalak weave. Yet, Mindanao is too often defined by conflict rather than this profound cultural richness. As a man and a leader, how would you use your voice to actively dismantle these negative stereotypes and champion Mindanao's arts as a primary tool for peace- building and national unity?
“Mindanao's tri-people heritage, the Lumad, the Moro, and the Christian, are just some of the few culture and tradition that completes the Mindanao harmonious community. I myself, as a man, and as a leader, how can I use my voice to contribute to peace-building and to preserve our national identity? Ladies and gentlemen, this is already the answer, the MASTS Games 2025. This is not just as a mere competition, but instead, this is a great platform for us to use our voices to proliferate the rights of our dear culture and traditions in Mindanao. Not just the Lumad, the Moro, and the Christians, but the totality of the culture that is present in Mindanao. Because I do believe that Misamis Occidental is just one of the few provinces that empowers the right of different cultures and traditions in Mindanao. One example would be our governor, Henry Oaminal. Despite of his political party and other colleagues, he himself proven that despite of the political party, it is very possible to work hand in hand to achieve unity and discipline despite of the political colors in the provinces.
Also, in the topic of culture and traditions, I, myself, will advocate for “Pluralism”. What is pluralism? Pluralism is a state of fact , the aspect that despite of the cultural differences, we may be able to live with harmony, we may be able to co-exist with a different culture. And with this, I will be humble and proud enough to use the platform of MASTS Games, starting in Misamis Occidental until I will reach the entire world. Because I do believe that the true beauty of culture and tradition does not depend on the eyes of other people. As Atty. Alvin Reyes earlier said, true beauty shines in you. I strongly believe also with the saying that ‘When the youth thrive in sports, learn to understand culture and the arts, the whole nation moves forward’.
Congratulations to Carl Perez! His winning answer shone with insight, creativity, and heart — a true reflection of excellence that earned him this well-deserved recognition.👏🌟