America's search for Ginoong Pilipinas goes to NY

The California-based Ginoong Pilipinas USA is holding its 5th runway pageant cum fundraiser on Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 at 7 p.m. at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center on 556th Avenue between 45th and 46th Streets, New York City. Known for its humanitarian causes, Ginoong Pilipinas USA will share 100% of the event's proceeds this year to the widlfire victims of Southern California. Wildfires threatened thousands of Southern California homes last October, destroying buildings and forcing thousands to evacuate. CBS 2 News Anchor Kristine Johnson will host the program and Ali Ewoldt, "Cosette" of the famed Broadway musical will be the special guest performer. Both featured guests are of Filipino descent. Over 15 finalists are competing for the title and this year's winner will receive a $1,000 cash, a custom-made trophy and sash and the rare opportunity of representing the country to the Mr International event held annually in Asia. Previous winners and runners-up of Ginoong Pilipinas-USA participated in international modeling competitions and have won accolades. Getty Santos went to Korea for the Manhunt International contest in 2005, Chris Friel and Nomer Yuzon flew to China in 2006, and in December this year, Mark Figueroa will compete at the Mr. International pageant in Malaysia. Tickets to the event are at $20 and are available by calling (917) 553-4750 in New York and (415) 424-3998 in San Francisco. The Philippine Center is accessible by Subway via all trains. It is a walking distance from Times Square, Grand Central and Bryant Park. – The Filipino Express