Alexei Cruz steps down as Masters of the World Philippines 2026 titleholder

Alexei Cruz announced that he has given up his title as Masters of the World Philippines 2026 due to “personal and professional reasons.”

“After careful thought and consideration, I have decided to respectfully withdraw from my title due to personal and professional reasons,” he said in a statement released on his social media pages on Friday, Aug. 21.

“This was not an easy decision to make. My work is an important part of my life and my bread and butter, and with the timeline and responsibilities ahead, I have realized that I need to be more present and fully committed to my professional responsibilities in the coming months,” he stated. “At the same time, I understand that carrying a crown and being part of Masters of the World comes with responsibilities that require time, presence, and commitment.”

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Cruz underscored, “I would not want to carry this title if I cannot give it the dedication and representation it deserves.”

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He then expressed his gratitude to those who have supported and believed in him throughout his pageant journey.

“With that, I sincerely hope that the crown can be passed on to someone who can fully commit to the responsibilities and represent the organization with the dedication it deserves,” he said.

“This decision may not have been easy, but l believe it is the most responsible one for me at this point in my life,” he added. “Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey and for your understanding and continued support.”

Cruz was given the title after he emerged as one of the winners at the 2026 Mr. World Philippines final competition last Aug. 2. The pageant organization has yet to announce who will inherit Cruz’s title. /ra