Over the past few years, the definition of the perfect body has gone through quite a revamp. The conversation has moved in the direction of strong and lean, with a focus on a holistic approach to health and fitness. And as the competition marks its milestone 20th year, Century Tuna Superbods puts the spotlight not only on the 40 aspirants, for whom a healthy body becomes the foundation of the inspiring stories they are excited to share with the world.

What sets this year’s #Superbod era list apart is its celebration of the continuous evolution of what a ‘perfect body’ looks like. “This is a platform for every body, where purpose takes center stage," Carlo Endaya, vice president, general manager, and Group Business head of Century Pacific Food Inc. said. "Anyone, at any stage of life, can step into their own Superbod Era. Physical fitness gets you on stage, but true transformation is about leading by example and empowering every Filipino to take charge of their wellness journey."

As the finalists strutted, or more like danced, their way down the red runway during the recent launch, it was a display of heart and strength of spirit. One that extends far beyond physical conditioning, encompassing personal growth, mental strength, and inspiring health advocacies.

Real people with real purpose

For each of the 20 male and 20 female Superbod finalists, this competition goes a little deeper. It celebrates the effort and discipline behind every fit body – be it overcoming illness, adversity, or even societal perceptions. Real people who use physical fitness as a platform to open up about their unique journeys, overcoming hurdles, and championing health advocacies. This is their time, using this stage as a platform to tell their stories and share their advocacies — from education to accessible nutrition. They also hope to show everyday Filipinos that they too, at any stage of life, can kickstart their own Superbod Era.

And there was no shortage of inspiration on that stage. Ameer Ahid, who, despite losing a leg to bone cancer a few years back, was a show of strength, completing a solo hyrox race faster than most people can even dream. For host Gee Canlas and beauty queen Scarlett de Mesa, it was showing their kids that motherhood is not a limitation, but a motivation to become their strongest selves. For actor Jay Gonzaga, he advocates for body positivity as an integral part of overall wellbeing. Then there is dancer and choreographer Nunoy Van den Burgh, who sees health and fitness as the catapult towards reaching your dreams.

Stepping out of the corporate world and into their fitness girlie alter egos are educator Jillian Robillos and banker Alana Montemayor. Kim Panique breaks the mold as the first trans man to join the competition, while fitness advocate Ashley Cayuca believes that age is but a number when it comes to health and athletic transformation. Stylist and designer Ken Batino also put on a fierce display, walking down the stage in 5-inch heeled boots. All are living proof of what is possible, amplifying their remarkable stories to inspire and motivate others.

The OG Superbod

There was little that hosts KC Montero and 2025 Superbod finalist Inka Magnaye could do to contain the excitement in the room when the iconic Century Tuna brand ambassador and OG Superbod Anne Curtis stepped out on stage. "Having been with Century Tuna for so many years, I've had a front-row seat to how this brand and this platform have grown," says Curtis. "Seeing these finalists step up with heart and genuine passion for their health advocacies is truly inspiring for everyone.”

As a Superbod herself, Curtis shared with Montero and Magnaye the most important thing the competition has contributed to her fitness journey. “The first thing that came to mind was sustainable,” enthused the actress. “As we age gracefully, we shouldn’t make being healthy a phase in our life. It should be something we make our lifestyle. So, yes, sustainable.”

It’s more than just the prize

Over the past couple of months, the 40 Superbods have been put through the rigors of training — on all fronts. From how to walk with confidence on both the runway and in real life, to proper diet and nutrition, where "food is fuel," as well as talks on mental health and well-being, and, of course, an optimized workout routine. Each step is geared towards getting them into the finest form not only for finals night, but also to push for greater awareness for their personal advocacies.

Most importantly, being named the Male and Female Century Tuna Superbod winners comes with the responsibility of being the ambassadors of healthy living. The title also comes with a P1,000,000 prize each, while runners-up get P250,000 apiece.

Then again, everyone comes out a winner here. Each Superbod steps out as a more empowered version of themselves, challenging perceptions about what a strong body looks like. As the OG Superbod Anne Curtis says, “Once a Superbod, forever a Superbod!” That is a goal right there.