Standing 5 feet 10 inches, Arthur D. Evia is a student loved by all not just because of his mestizo looks, but also because of his always ready-to-help hand. He has good standing with his academics, and is also participative in extra-curricular activities. Having a Spanish blood by birth and pure Filipino by heart, this mestizo’s love for the country is evident in his words and actions. Also, another thing his schoolmates and teachers love about him is his being humble.

He joined the local Mr. STI in 2014 and unfortunately was not lucky enough to win. But to Arthur, anything you learn from is not a waste. Hence, he did not consider it as an unfortunate event. Instead, he considered it as something that widened his world and opened his eyes to different experiences.

Just this year, he was again urged by his classmates and friends to join the said pageant. And when he won, he felt elated and thankful that many people rooted for him. He admitted that he was “giddy because everything seemed surreal”. Because of the pressure he sensed from his schoolmates and friends, he felt like he needed to do his best for the school, and for his partner, Hannah Crissena Cabacungan.

When asked about how he prepared for the Cluster 2 Competition, he said that many people helped and supported him to take control of himself. He went on proper diet, drank lots of water, and went to the gym for a better shape. As advised, he also practiced his smiles and poses in front of the mirror at home and trained with his coaches to set his mind and confidence ready for the pageant. He knew he has to be prepared to face his competitors from different branches namely Caloocan, Cubao, Fairview, Meycauayan, Novaliches, Quezon Avenue, Recto, and Taft. He resolved to having the mindset that he should not bring all his supporters down.

On the day of the competition, he expected of nothing else but to deliver one clear message to his co STIers: It is to always go for what they want and have fun. And now that he is the title holder of Cluster 2 Mr. STI 2015, and will be competing for the Nationals on September 25, 2015, he leaves his schoolmates and friends with a thought to ponder: “Doubts in self and uncertainties will arise. But as long as you do what you want, it will manifest in your smile and actions. Anyone can reach the Nationals as long as you don’t forget to pray and put your best self forward. Just be who you are, do what you want, and have fun.”

STI Muñoz, let us continue supporting Arthur in the Nationals! See you all on September 25, 2015 at Enchanted Kindgom!

By: Erika Ilagan