RJ Perkins, 21, drew widespread attention after a video showed him walking across an outdoor stage during the swimwear segment of Mister Pampanga in Pampanga, north of Manila, on April 19, 2026. [1]
The clip spread online because Perkins had a heavier, softer physique than the chiselled bodies usually associated with male pageant contestants. [1] Social media users in the Philippines and beyond praised the moment as “breaking barriers and stereotypes” and used it to talk about body positivity for men. One user wrote, “I love this! Men are just as pressured as women to ‘look good’ [and have a] ‘perfect figure’ … so we need more body positivity for men,” while another said, “I’m rooting for him. I admire his confidence, and I hope he wins big.” [1]
Observers said the reaction suggested beauty pageants may be moving beyond traditional ideals. [1] The response also put Perkins at the center of a wider discussion about how male contestants are judged on stage and online. [1]
The video was taken on April 19, 2026, and continued circulating after the pageant moment drew fresh attention on social platforms. [1]
