Miriam Quiambao: “Marriage has taught me to be more accepting and forgiving.”
The new batch of Binibining Pilipinas winners should follow Miriam Quiambao’s example: She has ventured into writing. She will launch her book, “He Can Catch You When You Fall,” on March 21, 6 p.m. at National Book Store Glorietta 1.
After life’s twists and turns, Miriam has found her peace.
Tell us about your book.
My book is an inspirational memoir. I want to show how God has picked me up, not only when I fell onstage at the Miss Universe pageant in 1999, but also when I failed in different aspects of my life.
What has marriage taught you?
It has taught me to be more accepting, forgiving and loving. I am blessed because it’s easy to love and respect my husband Ardy.
How’s your relationship with your stepson?
Joshua is really sweet. Ardy and I take time to bond with him through playtime. We go on walks, read books.
Joshua, who’s only 7, surprises us with little notes, personally wrapped gifts and stories of his adventures. I’m so blessed to have him as my first child.
Any cute anecdotes about married life?
At first, I found it hard to submit to my husband. I wanted to renovate his house because the blue-and-white Santorini theme did not match my minimalist contemporary Asian style.
He told me that we had a limited budget. Indeed, it was a wise decision… Now, I have learned to enjoy my home. I just added a few Asian touches.
Looking back, what would you have done differently?
I would have humbled myself more. I was young and proud after my Miss Universe experience and I failed to respect the Binibining Pilipinas Charities. As a result, Mrs. Stella Marquez-Araneta didn’t allow me to do my final walk. But I have since asked for forgiveness and our relationship has been restored.
If you were a born-again Christian then, would you have joined it?
I was very active in a Catholic charismatic singles’ community called “Ang Lingkod ng Panginoon” back then. I credit my win to God. I merely obeyed His will.
These days, I go to a different community, Christ’s Commission Fellowship in Alabang. The journey continues and I am blessed to discover His great plans in my life.
Drew’s dream
This month, “Biyahe ni Drew,” hosted by Drew Arellano, takes viewers to dream destinations on its second anniversary. On Friday, the show will feature Palawan’s secluded hideaways. It will air at 8 p.m. on GMA News TV.