Former beauty queens share how Bb. Pilipinas changed their lives

MANILA, Philippines — Their reign may be long over, but the legacies of the former Binibining Pilipinas queens have lived on.

During the launch of Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc.’s (BPCI) “Beauty Ever After” commemorative coffee table book held at the Novotel Manila Araneta City, The STAR interviewed some of the previous titleholders about how their Bb. Pilipinas’ wins impacted their lives.

Miss International 1979 Melanie Marquez shared that her life changed completely after winning the crown. “After I won, of course, it’s different if you have a crown. You become ladylike. As well as you represent the country differently,” she offered.

“The character of a person who was crowned takes on a different path. It becomes beautiful. And you have to be a good example as a Binibini. There were a lot of big changes.”

Melanie, who was only 15 when she was named the winner, further recalled, “Bigla akong naging dalaga na rin ‘cause I was very young at that time. And I’m just so grateful for that time because I achieved many accomplishments before, especially at work.”

Miss Universe 2013 third runner-up Ariella Arida said that her life “took a 180-degree turn” after competing in the Bb. Pilipinas pageant. “Especially coming from the province (Laguna), Binibini life was something so new to me and nobody knew I was gonna win.

“Because when you come from the province, you feel like you’re always an underdog. But Binibini made me believe that your dreams can come true no matter where you’re from. I wouldn’t be where I am right now if not because of Bb. Pilipinas.”

Abbygale Arenas-de Leon, who bagged the Miss Photogenic award at the Miss Universe 1997, mentioned that the Miss Philippines title will always be there.

“I became a Bb. Pilipinas (winner), laging nandiyan yan eh. So in every decision, in every challenge, I always think, ‘OK, what can people learn from this?’

“Somehow, it’s egotistical but it’s a mentality like you always have to choose what is good (and) what is right because somehow there are people watching you. That’s a kind of good pressure because I try my best to always choose the right thing.”

Actress Alma Concepcion, who finished among the Top 10 finalists