PETA holds search for sexiest vegetarian

MANILA, Philippines - Do you think former United States President Bill Clinton is sexy?

The 65-year-old Clinton, the 42nd US president, is one of 182 contenders for the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) “Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity” contest.

Among the prominent names in the male category are actors Sir Ian McKellen, Alec Baldwin, Tobey Maguire, and Woody Harrelson; singers Sir Paul McCartney, Bryan Adams, Jason Mraz, and Michael Bolton; Filipinos Raymond Bagatsing, Carlos Agassi and Philippine STAR columnist RJ Ledesma.

There are also 172 celebrities in the women’s category that include actresses Alicia Silverstone, Natalie Portman, Anne Hathaway, Ashley Judd, Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, Christina Applegate, and Diane Keaton; singers Carrie Underwood and Colbie Caillat; and host Ellen DeGeneres.

Even Chelsea, the daughter of former President Clinton, is in the list.

Prominent local personalities are former Sen. Jamby Madrigal-Valade, Philippine STAR columnists Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan and Raya Mananquil, actresses Chin-Chin Gutierrez, Yasmien Kurdi, Juliana Palermo; and model Isabel Roces.

Ashley Fruno of PETA said they started holding the sexiest vegetarian contest in 2008 because “it is a fun way to promote vegetarianism and to educate people on animal rights.”

She said that the winners of the contest would not be receiving any cash prize and would only have the honor of being called “sexiest vegetarian.”

Last year’s Philippine winner was Geneva Cruz, while Chinese singer-songwriter Faye Wong and Indian actor Shahid Kapoor topped the global contest.

In selecting the winners, PETA would give equal consideration to four criteria: the votes received, the celebrity’s commitment to vegetarianism, PETA’s assessment of the celebrities’ attractiveness, and the media-friendliness of each celebrity’s personality.

By showcasing prominent people who have embraced a vegetarian lifestyle, the animal-rights group hopes to attract more people to change their food preference from meat to vegetables.

It said healthy vegetarian meals could help reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and stroke, while meat-eaters are nine times more likely to be obese than vegans.

PETA said that a vegetarian diet is the easiest way to stay slim and sexy.

“When you look at the gorgeous celebrities in this year’s contest, it’s clear that eating vegetarian meals makes you beautiful inside and out,” said PETA Asia vice-president of international operations Jason Baker.

“After all, going vegetarian is the best thing that you can do for animals, the earth, and yourself. Plus, everyone knows that there’s nothing sexier than someone who exudes both passion and compassion,” he added.

Those interested to cast their vote for the sexiest vegetarian can visit the website PETAAsiaPacific.com.

The contest runs until May 15.