Filipino media entrepreneur and international pageant executive Josh Yugen will once again serve as the only Filipino judge at the Mister International 2026 Grand Finals, set for Bangkok, Thailand, marking his third consecutive year on the prestigious judging panel.
Yugen’s appointment reflects his growing influence in global pageantry and media. As founder and CEO of House of Yugen, he has championed Filipino talent and creativity on the international stage, building a career that bridges publishing, entertainment, and international events. His return to the Mister International judging table is especially significant as reigning titleholder Kirk Bondad, whom Yugen helped crown in 2025, prepares to pass on the title.
Yugen’s relationship with Mister International began in 2024 and has grown to include executive roles, such as Vice President for Global Partnerships and a seat on the executive board. This year, he returns to the judging panel with added pride, representing the Philippines as Bondad concludes his historic reign.
“Being invited back for the third consecutive year is already an incredible honor, but being the only Filipino judge for the Grand Finals this year makes it even more meaningful,” said Yugen. “I know that I am also representing the Philippines and the incredible talent, creativity, and professionalism of Filipinos around the world.”
Yugen’s career spans more than a decade, with achievements in publishing, public relations, and international events. He founded XPEDITION Magazine in 2015 and has since built House of Yugen’s footprint across the Philippines, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
His work extends to high-profile global stages, including appearances at international fashion weeks and the Cannes Film Festival. Yugen is also recognized for his growing influence within the pageant industry, securing national franchises for Miss Universe Pakistan, Sweden, and Egypt.
For Yugen, pageantry is about more than competition. “Pageantry today is so much bigger than a crown. It is media, business, culture, fashion, advocacy, and representation all coming together,” he explained, emphasizing the opportunities his team creates for candidates internationally.
His experience in media and publishing shapes his perspective as a judge. “Mister International celebrates male beauty, fitness, and presence, but those qualities alone are not enough. I look for authenticity, intelligence, discipline, purpose, and the ability to communicate.”
The connection to Kirk Bondad’s win in 2025 gives this year’s event deeper significance. “Seeing a Filipino win the title was a very proud moment. Now I return as a judge as he completes his reign, so there is something beautifully full-circle about this year,” Yugen shared.
As House of Yugen expands its ventures internationally, Yugen remains committed to showcasing Filipino talent on the world stage. “No matter how international our work becomes, being Filipino will always be at the heart of what I do,” he said. Mister International 2026 will culminate with Bondad crowning his successor, continuing the Philippines’ strong presence in global pageantry.