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All the excitement about Miss Universe reminded me of a long overdue blog post about another former Miss Philippines Universe who also made it to the finals.

Miriam Quiambao tweeted about Miss Doll Universe last month and how she was chuffed that the doll was inspired by her. I checked out the link and was immediately amused by all the Barbie-type dolls photographed in various stages of the pageant—national costume, swimsuit competition, and evening gowns adorned with the requisite sash. Even the chandelier earrings and little tiaras were a sight! What’s extra amazing is how the dolls do have different eye shapes, skin tone, hair color, and features depending on the country they represent.

Screencap of www.missdu.net/

I was able to email Miriam a few questions about the whole thing and she was kind enough to respond right away. (Please forgive my delay in posting this!)

1. How did you find out that you were the inspiration for the Ms. Philippines contestant?

ABS-CBN‘s Rated K (hosted by Korina Sanchez) wanted to do a feature about dolls and a story on Miss Doll Universe 2010. They informed me that they interviewed the organizers who mentioned that I was their inspiration for the Philippine delegate. I thought it was really so CUTE! I just had to share it! Even Halle Berry looked like herself and even Donald Trump! Sobrang career!

Miss Body Beautiful in the Swimsuit Competition. Screencap from www.missdu.net

2. What do you think are the similarities between your features and that of the doll’s?
The Miriam doll is elegant, pretty, and sexy and I’m actually flattered that they even chose her has as Miss Body Beautiful! Even her pose was like my signature pose! Haha!

Well, I’ve gained a few pounds since the pageant but the other similarities I find are that she’s morena with long black hair (my hair used to be long when I joined) and her face looks Asian. She has a pleasant smile.

BFFs Miss Philippines and Miss Spain. Screencap from www.missdu.net

3. Your name is mentioned in the BFF gallery where the Ms. Philippines doll is featured with the Ms. Spain doll. Did you have a similarly close friendship with another contestant when you joined Ms. Universe?
I was hanging out lot with Miss Peru and a group of girls would have noodle parties in Miss Thailand’s room. Eventually, Miss Northern Marianas and I hung out when she came to visit me here. Miss Panama and I are still friends on Facebook!

Doing Miriam's signature stance in her evening gown. Screencap from www.missdu.net

4. How does it feel to have a doll fashioned after you?
It felt very heartwarming to discover that I was their inspiration for the Miss Doll-Philippines. It’s amazing that people still remember what we had accomplished in Miss Universe more than 10 years ago. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to represent our beloved Philippines and the gift to influence in a positive way.

Thank you so much Miriam!

Go through the galleries of Miss Doll Universe at www.missdu.net. I guarantee you’ll have fun!

Isha.

P.S.

Miss Philippines won the competition in 2006. Teehee!

Tags: Miriam Quiambao, Miss Doll Universe