John Raspado beat out 40 other contestants for the title.

A Filipino man has been crowned Mr. Gay World 2017, snagging the Philippines’ first win in the pageant.

A post shared by John Fernandez Raspado (@johnraspado) on Nov 5, 2016 at 8:31pm PDT

John Raspado bested over 40 contestants to win the competition, which took place from May 5-10 in Madrid and Maspalomas, Spain.

The 36-year-old entrepreneur will now serve as an ambassador for the global LGBT community, focusing on HIV advocacy.

MGWP Opening number :) A post shared by John Fernandez Raspado (@johnraspado) on Oct 4, 2016 at 2:05am PDT

“Big Congratulations to John Fernandez Raspado for giving honor to our country and for winning Best in Swimwear, Best in Formal Wear, Mr. Gay World Closed Door Interview, Mr. Online Vote, Mr. Social Media special awards in Maspalomas, Spain,” wrote Mr. Gay World Philippines organizer Wilbert Tolentino on Facebook.

A post shared by John Fernandez Raspado (@johnraspado) on Nov 17, 2016 at 11:32pm PST

Raspado also celebrated his victory with a message on the Mr. Gay World Philippines Facebook page.

“Thank you to the people behind MGWPO (Mr. Gay World Philippines), especially to Wilbert Tolentino, for always guiding me on my journey to success and to those who helped me backstage and my fellow candidates. Especially the delegates of Belgium and Venezuela, who were my roommates,” wrote Raspado.

“This is is not only for my family but also for the gay men like me who have principles and a purpose to fight for,” he added. “Thank you, Lord God!”

A post shared by John Fernandez Raspado (@johnraspado) on Nov 19, 2016 at 11:38pm PST