Miriam Quiambao Blogs

Miriam saves lives

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:43:00 +0000

iGMA: How Miriam Quiambao saves lives

Author: Jason John S. Lim
Column: Entertainment

Bilang 'Nurse Betty,' Miriam Quiambao takes it upon herself to isolate the danger that is known as Patient X. Pero it's not just on screen that Miriam saves people. She tries to make a difference in real life too.

Aside from being busy with the movie Patient X, naging busy din recently si Miriam sa kanyang efforts para tumulong sa mga naapektuhan ng mga bagyong "Ondoy" and "Pepeng."

"When events like these come, something very traumatic for all of us, the situation just compels you to do something," said Miriam. "You can't just sit and wait, or sit and watch. You have to do something."

Miriam told iGMA na she planned raw talaga na mag-start ng sariling relief operation during the height of the Ondoy crisis. But because of previous engagements, Miriam said she wasn't able to do it.

"Pinasa ko na lang lahat sa World Vision. Doon ako sumuporta, 'yung mga volunteers doon namin dinirect. Nag-collect ako ng mga donations, binigay ko rin sa World Vision," paliwanag niya

At bukod dito, Miriam turned her social networking sites into a one-stop shop for information relating to Ondoy where people who know of places where people need help, or where people can help, can post their information too.

"Nakita natin 'yung bayanihan ng lahat ng tao," she recalled. "Ke mayaman, ke mahirap--lahat tumutulong. Kasi nga kailangan gumalaw e. I'm so happy kasi everybody stepped up into leadership and nabuhay 'yung bayanihan that is very characteristic of our country."

The Reel Savior

Meanwhile, sa Patient X, gagampanan ni Miriam ang role ni Nurse Betty. "Ako 'yung Chief Nurse ng hospital. Ako 'yung nag-aalaga at nag-a-isolate sa Patient X, para hindi mamatay lahat ng tao sa mundo," she shared during the press conference of the movie last October 15.

Kung para sa 'yo, that sounds too much like other horror movies, Miriam has this to say: "Ibahin niyo po itong movie na directed by Yam Laranas."

If you've seen The Echo, Miriam compares the feel of their movie to that of the Hollywood remake of Yam's first foray into the horror genre: Sigaw, which also starred Richard Gutierrez.

"The Echo would be an intro to what Patient X would be." Miriam continued, "Expect that Patient X would be just as thrilling, [that it] will push you to the edge of your seats."

Although Miriam admitted to not having seen the whole movie yet, she said that based on what she has seen so far, "Sobra na akong natakot, na-paranoid. Nagka-nightmares na ako sa paggawa ko ng movie na 'to! What more pag pinanood niyo na 'yung buo with all of the effects in?"

On Direk Yam

Miriam is all praises para sa director nila na super professional daw at makikita ito sa order ng production. Si Direk Yam daw brought over the Hollywood way of filming movies--structured, scheduled, and fully in support of the artists involved.

"Within 16 hours, tapos na agad ang shoot. May oras para makapag-pahinga 'yung crew, 'yung talent. Mas lalo naming naibibigay 'yung sarili namin doon sa role," she shared.

Dagdag pa niya, "'Pag nakikita talaga [ni Direk Yam] na importante 'yung scene, kakausapin niya 'yung actor. Very detailed siya when it comes to his requirements for a particular scene."

Miriam added na litaw na litaw daw ang background ni Direk Yam sa advertising.

"And ang maganda sa kanya, 'pag nakita niya na naibigay mo kung ano 'yung gusto niya, sasabihin niya sa 'yo," according to Miriam sabay sabing hindi raw nagkulang si Direk Yam sa pagbibigay ng positive feedback sa cast.

"So bilang isang actor, nakaka-motivate kasi ibig sabihin, napi-please namin 'yung director and lalo namin napapaganda 'yung movie," patuloy niya.

Hiling ni Miriam sa fans, suportahan ang kanyang first horror movie na Patient X when it comes out on October 28.

"First horror movie ko ito...First tambalan [rin] ni Richard and Cristine [Reyes]. Suportahan po natin ang pelikulang Pilipino, lalo na po ito ay for international release," aniya.

Catch the cast of Patient X at Market Market on Saturday, October 24. And on October 25, the cast will be at SM Manila for a mall show and the movie's premiere night.

Miriam, Maricar hit their thespic stride - INQUIRER.net, Philippine News for Filipinos

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 02:59:00 +0000

Link

I feel soo happy that my portrayal in Kimmy Dora was noticed. Thanks to Nestor Torre!

HOW TO AVOID DONATIONS FOR TYHPOON VICTIMS FROM BEING TAXED AT CUSTOMS

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 02:24:00 +0000

In behalf of all pinoys and the victims of typhoon Ondoy. I would like to thank you for your generous heart and desire to make a difference to the Phlippines.

In the spirit of Bayanihan (cooperation), generous fellow pinoys and even our compassionate foreign friends have organized themselves and are preparing their generous donations to be shipped to the Philippines to assist those who have been affected by the flooding brought about by typhoon Ondoy.

According to this article, the government has set up a multi-agency one-stop shop system to facilitate receipt & delivery of goods sent for the benefits of victims brought about by typhoon Ondoy & Pepeng. Foreign donations coursed through DSWD therefore will be tax-free.

A number of pinoys though have expressed their concern about the government system and prefer to send donations through private NGOs instead. Here are some instructions:

DONATIONS TO WORLDVISION DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION INC.

Donations in kind are welcome & can be sent directly (door-to-door) to their Quezon City Headquarters in

WORLDVISION DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
c/o David Liban
389 Quezon Avenue corner West 6th Street,
Diliman, Quezon City Philippines

Please send an email to wv_phil@wvi.org or call +632 3727777 to inform them about this donation including all the details of the shipment and you will receive a letter of acceptance will be given as well as proper coordination.

Worldvision will make an inventory of the donations and coordinate directly with the DSWD for declaration as well with the local government units (LGU) for distribution.

Those abroad who wish to send in monetary donations to this organization are also encouraged in order to avoid the hassle of shipping. This is a Christian, private and credible organization that uses up only 6-8% of annual financial contributions for administration expense while the rest goes to beneficiaries.

To know more about Worldvision Dev't Foundation, you may check out their website.

As a celebrity advocate for Worldvision for 7 years now, I can vouch in behalf of Worldvision that donations that are made listed for the Relief Operation Fund will go to the typhoon victims. Please remember too include this note in your donation. All monetary donations must be accounted for in order for it to be used immediately and for the purpose it was made. Unaccounted donations will float in the account unused for 6 months so please indicate all cash donations for the Relief Operation Fund.

For monetary donations made through bank deposit, instructions are listed on this page.

For online donations to Worldvision, click here for the online form.

THANK YOU!

DONATIONS THROUGH THE PHILIPPINES NATIONAL RED CROSS:

The following lists the procedure in order to avoid your donations from being taxed at customs.
Before sending the goods to Phil National Red Cross,

1. Send a letter of intent to donate to the PNRC addressed to:

PNRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang
gwenpang@redcross.org.ph
and CC pnrcnhq@redcross.org.ph

2. A letter of acceptance from PNRC shall be sent back to the donor

3. Immediately after shipping the goods, please send the following:

(a) original Deed of Donation,
(b) copy of packing list and
(c) original Airway Bill for air shipments or Bill of Lading for sea shipments to:

The Philippine National Red Cross National Headquarters
c/o Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang,
Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila 2803, Philippines.

4. All boxes or goods shall be sent under the name of

The Philippine National Red Cross National Headquarters
c/o Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang,
Bonifacio Drive, Port Area, Manila 2803, Philippines.

5. Notify PNRC of the shipment details as soon as good are sent.

"The PNRC will not accept rotten, damaged, expired or decayed goods. Expiration date of food and medicines should not be less 6 months. Medicines should comply with our standard - no to herbal or alternative medicines pls. Though we appreciate your generosity, the PNRC also discourages donations of used clothes as this is not allowed by Phil Customs. For those who are sending good, we appreciate more if you could also contribute to the mobilization or operation expenses of the distribution of goods." ~ Sec. Gwen Pang

Everyone is further encouraged to send in your monetary donations through this page of Philippines National Red Cross or you may donate online via credit card through this page to avoid the hassle of shipment.

Perhaps this video may encourage you to donate & make a difference.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION and GOD BLESS YOUR HEARTS!

OVERSEAS CONTACT TO HELP OUT FOR ONDOY VICTIMS

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 01:24:00 +0000

OFFICIAL DROP OFF SITES and CONTACT INFORMATION:

ASIA

SINGAPORE

Relief Goods Drop off is @ airfreight lucky plaza #03-09. can call 62351011, Open til 7pm

OR visit PinoySG.com for more details.

HONGKONG

Weng Mendoza is gathering goods & donations, you may drop off at her home in 3/F block A 122 Pok Fu Lam Road, HK. You may reach her at wmendoza27@yahoo.com or call/txt +85290459522

USA

NAFCON (Nat’l Alliance for Filipino Concerns)/SANDIWA Nat’l Alliance of Fil-Am Youth are now receiving relief donations (clothes, blankets, medical supplies, monetary). For general questions please call Anne Beryl (516)9011832.
Official Webpage: www.bayanihan4ondoy.wordpress.com

NEW YORK

NY/NJ drop-off @ BAYANIHAN Filipino Community Center, 40-21 69th St. Woodside, NY 11377. Open Hours: Monday –Friday 11 AM – 8 PM and Saturday & Sunday 12-6 PM. Please Contact; Yancy Mark (347)8670330 or Jonna (646)5787390 or email filipinocenter@gmail.com if you would like to help.

Stony Brook University; please contact Jun Rose (646)7503489.
FIND District III college organizations: Please Contact Patricia Dayleg (patricia.dayleg@gmail.com) and Isabel Marie Gomez (isabelmariegomez@gmail.com).
BKPNewYork are also specifically collecting children’s books to the Philippines: Please contact Frederick (646)6417183 or email Frederick@bkpny.

Pandayan Center 406 W40th St. Between 9th and 10th Aves. NY, NY 10018 or 212.564.6057

NEW JERSEY

For donations in New Jersey please contact: (201)621-3156-Yves Nibungco or (917)476-7855- Nick Cordero
Sinugba Cafe 561 Westside Ave. Jersey City, NJ 07304
Casa Victoria 691 Newark Ave. Jersey City, NJ 07306-2803.
Kalusugan Coalition: Call 2016534600 for office hours. 591 Summit Avenue Suite 412 Jersey City, 07306. Corner Summit & Newark Ave.

MIDWEST

NAFCON Midwest
Fellowship for Filipino Migrants-FFM
PO Box 901 Glenview, IL 60025-9998
ffm4outreach@gmail.com Nerissa (224)3816888

LOS ANGELES

Please contact Kuu Hilo (818)395-9207. You can send CASH through Metro Bank acct. 3 189 14540 1 For BAYAN’s “BALSA” (Bayanihan Alay sa Sambayanan)

SAN FRANCISCO/BAY AREA

For donations in San Francisco/Bay Area, Please contact Ryan Leano (626)534-4971. Monetary donations can also be dropped off at these sites. Checks can be made out to “Lakasdiwa,” a non-profit organization that will send the funds directly to MIGRANTE International in the Philippines, a workers’ organization directly helping the victims in the disaster relief efforts. Please put “Typhoon Ondoy Relief” on the check’s note.

Filipino Community Center
4681 Mission Street San Francisco, CA 94112
Liwanag Kultural Center
Hillside Park Clubhouse 222 Lausanne Ave. Daly City‎, CA‎ 94014
Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays 3:30-6:00 and Wednesdays 3:30-8:00

Asian Pacific Islander Youth Promoting Advocacy & Leadership
Attn: Armael Malinis, AnakBayan-East Bay
310 8th Street, Suite 215 Oakland, CA 94710
Stanford’s Pilipino American Student Union (PASU) is also collecting donations to be sent to the Philippines to help victims of Typhoon Ondoy (international name Ketsana). If you would like to make a donation, please contact AV David at avhdavid@stanford.edu or (650) 491-4561.

PORTLAND, OREGON:
Contact Portland Committee for Human Rights in the Philippines through Claire Oliveros portlandchrp@gmail.com. You can send CASH through Metro Bank acct. 3 189 14540 1 For BAYAN’s “BALSA” (Bayanihan Alay sa Sambayanan).
Please contact Consuelo Rivera at welorivera@yahoo.com or call at (503)7299449.

HAWAII

You may reach Consul Paul Raymund C. Cortes at (808) 595 6316 – to 19, extn, 237. and he is willing to be of assistance. More details on the Philippine Consulate Website

CANADA

TORONTO
Visit any CIBC branch and make a donation to the following account:

AFCM Temporalities Account
Transit #7012
Account #56-24010

For more information, contact the Philippine Independence Day Council.

AUSTRALIA
SYDNEY:
303/5 Stromboli Strait, Homebush Bay 2127. message @allorange for questions.

MELBOURNE
CBD area; Drop off relief goods at Coco Quizon’s residence @ 8 Vale St., North Melbourne. Contact 0458603723 for donations of goods or pledges.

EUROPE

UNITED KINGDOM
Visit the OXFAM website

BELGIUM
Contact Shiera Catalan at +32485328811 to drop off your donations for typhoon relief

MIDDLE EAST

UAE
Pres. Jo, 050-7456452, josepha@perceptgulffz.com for Lingap Kapwa-Ondoy victims.
Call Arnold of LBC for free LBC box 0508589065 via UP Alumni Asso.

QATAR
Call NOLI PEREZ 5642942.

DUBAI
For donations & other info, visit http://upaauae.org/

HOW CAN I HELP or DONATE?

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 22:31:00 +0000

I am collating some of the info I have received from my twitter account, www.twitter.com/miriamq

WORLDVISION DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION

World Vision Dev't Foundation receives your donations 24hrs.
Send them to 389 QAv cor West 6th St. , QC
Call (632)374-7618 up to 28 or call Pam +639178623209.

DONATE directly to PHILIPPINE NATIONAL RED CROSS website

For a Comprehensive Website, you are encouraged to visit this website:

ONDOYMANILA - help for Typhoon Ondoy Victims

Thank yo so much!

New map of most urgent cases needing rescue - Nation - GMANews.TV - Official Website of GMA News and Public Affairs - Latest Philippine News

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 08:45:00 +0000

Link

TYPHOON ONDOY EMERGENCY HOTLINES & RELIEF OPERATIONS

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:35:00 +0000

I am reposting this here from the Sour Politics blog so people will know what to do to help. Please pray & read Psalm 91, Matthew 11:28-30. MQ
"It has been raining the whole day. Tropical Storm Ondoy has wreak havoc across Metro Manila, and provinces around. Here are the key numbers to contact for information, rescue operations, relief services, donations. Thank you very much."

Rescue Operations

1. National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) (+632-9125668, +632-9111406, +632-9115061, +632-9122665) Help hotlines: (+65 734-2118, 734-2120)
2. Philippine Coast Guard (+632-5276136)
3. Air Force (+63908-1126976, +632-8535023)
4. Metro Manila Development Authority (136)
5. Marikina City Rescue (+632-6462436, +632-6462423, +632920-9072902)
6. Pasig Rescue Emergency Number (+632-6310099)
7. Quezon City Rescue (161)
8. San Juan City Hall Command Post (+632-4681697)
9. Bureau of Fire Protection Region III (Central Luzon) Hotline: (+63245-9634376)
10. Senator Dick Gordon (+639178997898, +63938-444BOYS, +632-9342118, +632-4338528)
11. Senator Manny Villar (+639174226800. +639172414864, +639276751981)

Civil Society/ Media

1. Philippine National Red Cross (143, +632-5270000)
2. Philippine National Red Cross Rizal Chapter operations center hotline: (+632-6350922, +632-6347824)
3. Go to GMA Facebook page & post complete addresses and names of people in need of immediate help.
4. ABS-CBN Typhoon Ondoy Hotline: (+632-4163641)
5. Jam 88.3: (+632- 6318803) or SMS at JAM (space) 883 (space) your message to 2968

————————————————————————————————————————————————-

All calls for help, please help us by filling out information here at the Rescue InfoHub Center.

————————————————————————————————————————————————-

Rubber Boat Requests, 4×4 Trucks

1. NCRPO (+632-8383203, +632-8383354)
2. Private citizens who would like to lend their motor boats for rescue
please call emergency nos: +632-9125668, +632-9111406, +632-9122665, +632-9115061)
3. You can also text (+632917-4226800 or +632927-6751981) for rescue dump trucks.
4. For those who are able to lend 4×4 trucks for rescue: Please send truck to Greenhills Shoppng Center Unimart Grocery to await deployment, Tel No. (+632920-9072902).

Power Supply

* Meralco (+63917-5592824, 16211, +63920-9292824) If you want service cut off to your area to prevent fires and electrocution.

Relief Aid and Donations

1. Victory Fort is opening its doors to those affected by the typhoon. Call 813-FORT.
2. NoyMar relief Operations: Clare Amador (+639285205508) or Jana Vicente at +639285205499). Drop off for relief donations is at Balay Expo Center across Farmers Market Cubao.
3. Miriam Quiambao drop off points: One Orchard Road Building in Eastwood, or message http://www.twitter.com/miriamq or email mqblog@me.com for more details & pledges.
4. Philippine Army Gym inside Fort Bonifacio or GHQ Gym in Camp Aguinaldo are now distributing donations for Ondoy Victims.
5. Team Manila stores in Trinoma, Mall of Asia, Jupiter Bel-Air and Rockwell shall be accepting relief goods (Canned Goods, Ready-to-drink Milk,Bottled Water and Clothes) for distribution by Veritas.
6. Caritas Manila Office at Jesus St., Pandacan Manila near Nagtahan Bridge (+632-5639298, +632-5639308)
7. Radio Veritas at Veritas Tower West Ave. Cor EDSA (+632-9257931-40)
8. Aranaz Stores in Rockwell & Greenbelt is accepting donations of any kind for Payatas communities affected by Ondoy
9. Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan Task Force Noah, a disaster response arm of the Jesuits, is accepting donations. Please drop it off sa Ateneo Cervini Dorm.
10. Philippine National Red Cross‘ different ways to Donate.
11. Red Cross Load Donations: Right now the easiest way to make donations from the seat of your chair is via mobile phone load. The Red Cross Rescue and Relief Operations. Text: REDAMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart)
12. Ateneo de Manila University is now accepting donations for the victims of Ondoy. Donations can be dropped at MVP Lobby. For those stranded/those who need help: To all students who need help or know of people who need help. Please text the name, location, and contact number to (+6329088877166). ATENEO, which is now an open shelter, accepts refugees. Call (+632917-8952792)
13. Papemelroti stores in 91 Roces Ave. / Ali Mall Cubao / SM City North EDSA / SM Fairview / SM Megamall / Glorietta 3 in Makati / SM Centerpoint / SM Southmall are accepting relief goods (canned goods / milk / bottled water / clothes – NO CASH pls.)
14. TXTPower now accepts donations via SmartMoney 5577514418667103, GCash 09179751092 and Paypal http://is.gd/3GvuN
15. Our Lady of Pentecost Parish (+632-4342397, +632-9290665) per Gabe Mercado, donations are very much welcome. The Parish is located at 12 F. Dela Rosa corner C. Salvador Sts., Loyola Heights, Quezon City.
16. Hillsborough Village Chapel – Water, blankets, shoes, and clothes may be sent to Hillsborough Village Chapel in Muntinlupa City. These will go to families whose houses were washed out in the nearby sitios.
17. Greenhills/Mandaluyong/San Juan Area, if you want to help out with the rescue and relief operations, you can drop off your donations (clothes, food, etc..) at La Salle Greenhills Gate 2 tomorrow or volunteer from 9am to receive, sort, repack the donations.
18. Petron: You may bring your relief goods to all Petron branches.
19. LUCA stores (Rockwell, Shang-rila, Eastwood, or GA towers): Send your old clothes & donations (no cash pls).
20. “LUZON RELIEF: Volunteer / Donate / Pray”: Donations can be brought to RENAISSANCE FITNESS CENTER, 2nd Floor, Bramante Building, Renaissance Towers Ortigas, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City starting MONDAY (Sept.28) / 9am – 7pm Contact Person: Warren Habaluyas (+632929-8713488) or email at luzonrelief@gmail.com
21. MOONSHINE boutique in Rockwell also accepting relief good to help Ondoy victims in Marikina and Cainta.
22. Katipunan Avenue. Contact Erica Paredes at (+632917-4741930) — they need bread, packed juice, sandwich filling (tuna, chicken, anything) You can help her make them, deliver the sandwiches to her house, or help her distribute! Call for more details.
23. Manor Superclub, Eastwood City will accept goods and other emergency items starting Sunday at 10 am.
24. Citizens Disaster Response Center (CDRC): Relief goods for typhoon victims being accepted at 72-A Times St., West Triangle, QC. Tel (+632-9299820/22)
25. MINISTOP IBARRA (Espana cor. Blumentritt, Sampaloc Manila) is also accepting relief goods, Food (non-perishable goods only) Clothing, Medicines, Beds, Pillows, Blankets, Emergency Supplies to help Typhoon Ondoy victims.

People Tracker (using your phones, get your friends and family to turn on their finderservice for you)

* FINDERSERVICE. For Smart, text “wis ” to 386.
* FINDERSERVICE. For Globe, text “find to 7000.

*MRT and LRT are open 24 hours today.

I got this map from Help “Ondoy” Victims in the Philippines. I can’t help but be amazed at this map made by a private citizen based on news from TV, radio, internet, etc. If he can do it, it makes me think and ask if the government uses these kinds of technology. GIS? I hope they do.
Email the map-maker at segregorio@gmail.com if you know Google Maps and want to help update this map.

Email the map-maker at segregorio@gmail.com or tweet @flipmozart if you know Google Maps and want to help update this map with the latest information available. Click this photo to view the situation map of Marikina, and nearby places.

NDCC Situation Reports (Click to Download PDF):

* Sept 26, 2009, 6pm: ndcc sitrep no 3 on the effects of ts ondoy as of 26 sept 2009, 6pm
* Sept 27, 2009, 1am: ndcc sitrep no 4 on the effects of ts ondoy as of sept. 27, 2009, 1am

—

UP Diliman Chancellor Cao to All Deans: “If there are faculty, staff, students stranded in your colleges, let them spend the night. Alumni Hostel and University Hotel are already full. Eateries in the Shopping Center are also open. Thanks much.”

You are what you think. Watch Brian Tracy.

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 02:03:00 +0000

For those of your wanting to know what it takes in order to be a success. Believe that what you think you are is what you will become. Here's success coach, best-selling author and internationally renowned speaker Brain Tracy to tell us more about it.

http://multiply.com/u/fc5eNtu

Modeling, Pageant Tips

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 21:54:00 +0000

Hi there!

I received this message on twitter from a follower, Martin Keith Nicholas aka Mhartiin and thought it best to answer through my blog so I can give a longer and better answer.

@miriamq hi ms Miriam =) any tips po for my sister?? she's also starting Modeling, and Pageant.? any Strong tips and Encouragements? Thx =)

Here are three tips in response to this question:

TIP # 1: WHAT'S YOUR PURPOSE?

Before joining the pageant, a competition, or joining any endeavor, first ask yourself, what's your purpose for doing it? What compelling reason will cause you to do it? Is it your dream? Why do you want it? What value is it to you? Do you want to be famous? rich? Could there be a reason for joining that can be greater that yourself? Help others? Be a role model?

When I made the decision to join, I had to pray and discern for a purpose.
God led me to these verses in the bible:

"No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him." Luke 8:16-18

Let us acknowledge that our talents and resources are gifts from God. Our appreciation of these gifts is best expressed by our open gratitude to God and use of these talents for the good and to glorify His name. God wants to help us fulfill our dreams because he loves us and wants to make us happy. Have faith that He will direct and guide you in the fulfillment of your dreams and for the purpose that it is made. Shine for Jesus!

TIP # 2: FIND A SUPPORT SYSTEM

Enlist a friend or family member to support you in the fulfillment of your dream. In the same way that two heads are better than one, knowing that someone is there rallying behind you makes you feel stronger as you go toward your goals. You will feel supported when you have someone with whom you can share your experiences and successes with, give you advise or even correct you when you're not at your best self. Bottomline, it's just more fun to share the experience with someone.

TIP # 3: TAKE THE STEPS, PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

Produce pictures of yourself in light makeup for your initial portfolio. You can get a friend photographer to do this for you or walk into a studio and ask for some pictures to be taken for you. Submit your pictures to a modeling agency and sign up as one of their models. Take up modeling classes or acting workshops to enhance your skills. Watch out for auditions or casting calls in the newspaper or from your network/agency. Go to go-sees or casting calls and do your best. You may not be accepted right away. When that happens, remember that it doesn't mean you're ugly and there's something wrong about you. The casting agents are just looking for a look or something specific that they may have found in somebody else. It's a numbers game. The more go-sees you go to, the more chances of you getting a job.

SAVE THE HUMAN!!

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 21:19:00 +0000

My friend Bobsy is the creative director of this video that was entirely shot in Hong Kong on a shoestring budget. It won Best HK Documentary at the I Shot Hong Kong Film Festival last July3, 2009. Various celebrities, artists, musicians, business people, politicians, people from all walks of life, young and old alike were invited to participate in the making of this video. Check me out on 4:05 minutes with a blue and brown cashmere shawl. Let us all join in and SAVE THE HUMAN!!

Check out this video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Q4rdx7frHM.

Rigodon at Malacanang Palace

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:44:00 +0000

Last June 12, 2009, was a memorable on for me. It was an honor to be invited and to perform at the 111th Independence Day celebration at the Malacanang Palace. President GMA has revived the performance of the Rigodon De Honour, twenty pairs were invited and personally chosen by the President. I was paired with none other than the Economic/NEDA Secretary, youngest senator and husband to Star for All Seasons (Vilma Santos), Secretary Ralph Recto. My imperial yellow modern terno was made by designer friend Jun Escario.

The Rigodon is actually a courtship square dance that was brought in from Europe by Filipinos during the Spanish times. We were given four nights to rehearse, two hours each rehearsal. The Rigodon march, after having gotten used to the steps was fun to learn -- that is, if we can memorize the sequences which all in all lasted for 12 minutes! The sumptous dinner buffet at the end of each rehearsal was a good incentive to want to learn the dance. Well, at least it worked for me! Haha!

The participants were actually all worried because on the last rehearsal, two nights before the Independence Day celebration, we were still messing up the last chain sequence of the dance! Fortunately, we did it right on performance night and as soon as we have all exited the ballroom to take pictures on the adjacent room, we all broke into applause, patting our backs for a wonderful performance! The audience hardly knew that we were all shaking underneath our gowns, hoping we wouldn't trip our heels on the carpeted floor! In the end, the audience liked our performance, and we were all proud of ourselves that we didn't mess up the dance! It was indeed an amazing experience!

To read more about the Rigodon De Honour at the Malacanang Palace, click here.
Look for President GMA in this group picture below. Hint: She's standing right next to me!

I'm learning to cook!

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Thu, 07 May 2009 06:00:00 +0000

Hey guys! I've always wanted to learn how to cook the right way & I'm finally blessed to have made friends with some people in the food industry. Celebrity Chef and Host of East Meets West Ming Tsai was in town the past week and I was also fortunate to have met him. Fun, great guy! He was here to judge a cooking competition at the Rockwell tent. He happens to be the cousin of the husband of a good friend of mine. I learned recently that he cooked to raise money for Tiger Woods' Foundation. $200,000.00. Whoa! Good job, Ming! Check him out at ming.com.

Chef Tristan Encarnacion is a celebrity chef at Unang Hirit and he gives me one-on-one cooking sessions at CCA. Check out some of the dishes I have made: caramelized salmon & pad thai! I had so much fun cooking & hope to take more classes with him again soon. Let me know if you would be interested in the recipe & I'll post them for you.

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Sat, 02 May 2009 10:33:00 +0000

Hey guys! I'm on twitter! Check it out at www.twitter.com/miriamq

STUDIO FOR RENT

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Sat, 02 May 2009 01:41:00 +0000

FOR RENT: Fully-furnished studio condo in Cubao, Quezon City. With terrace (mountain view), parking, 24-hour guard. 5-minute walking distance to Aurora Blvd MRT, St. Joseph church, hospital, banks and establishments. For long-term lease only. Send me a message or call 7028258.

The Five Finger Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 06:06:00 +0000

This is so neat. I had never heard this before...This is beautiful - and
it is surely worth making the 5 finger prayer a part of our lives.

1. Your thumb is nearest you. So begin your prayers by praying for those
closest to you. They are the easiest to remember. To pray for our loved
ones is, as C. S. Lewis once said, a "sweet duty."

2. The next finger is the pointing finger. Pray for those who teach,
instruct and heal. This includes teachers, doctors, and ministers. They
need support and wisdom in pointing others in the right direction. Keep
them in your prayers.

3. The next finger is the tallest finger. It reminds us of our leaders.
Pray for the president, leaders in business and industry, and
administrators. These people shape our nation and guide public opinion.
They need God's guidance.

4. The fourth finger is our ring finger. Surprising to many is the fact
that this is our weakest finger; as any piano teacher will testify. It
should remind us to pray for those who are weak, in trouble or in pain.
They need your prayers day and night. You cannot pray too much for them.

5. And lastly comes our little finger; the smallest finger of all which is
where we should place ourselves in relation to God and others. As the
Bible says, "The least shall be the greatest among you." Your pinkie
should remind you to pray for yourself. By the time you have prayed for
the other four groups, your own needs will be put into proper perspective
and you will be able to pray for yourself more effectively.

RICK WARREN's Purpose Driven Life

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 09:00:00 +0000

Last November and December, I went through a 40-day hiatus from dating and decided to take the Purpose Driven Life Book by Rick Warren. I did it with a close childhood friend of mine, Lelet. It drew us closer and I find it very helpful to have found someone I can share my walk with God.

Here we are in one of those PDL nights. She was also the one who invited me to attend the Victory Christian Fellowship church which eventually led to looking for a small Bible Group. I have since grown in my relationship with God and I am truly grateful for all the changes that are happening in my life.

I used to be very worried, self-centered and depressed about life and now, I have learned to trust and lift them all up to God. He has changed me in so many ways and even confirmed that an emotional healing is underway. How do I know? Early this year, I joined VCF's Corporate Prayer and Fasting and one of my faith goals is a complete emotional healing from my separation/divorce. This was confirmed when I was assessed by my friend Gerry Sy of Hilot Express (Check out his website at www.hilotexpress.com) who is an iridologist. If in reflexology, nerve endings found in your palms and soles are connected to your organs, so are the nerve endings in your irises. I guess the old adage that says "Your eyes are the windows to your soul" now extends to the eyes as also windows to the past, present and future state of your health. Anyway, Gerry told me as he was looking through my left iris, he said, "A few years ago you went through some emotional trauma, didn't you?" I said yes and asked how he knew. He said that he noticed nerve endings connected to emotions as having pus but he says that they are now healing. I was taken aback because I was at the end of my fasting day. He continued, "I know that it is healing because there is some kind of a protective film that is covering the nerves which is very rare. I now believe that you are now healing from this trauma." Praise God! I was totally speechless! God has created a miracle and I am forever grateful! I actually feel much happier, more joyful, content and friends have confirmed that they can sense that I am stronger emotionally now than ever. I shall forever praise God for all that things that is creating in my life. And that's just the tip of the iceberg! :)

Anyway, going back to Rick Warren I came across a story about him that I would like to share with you: An Interview with Rick Warren (REMEMBER, HE WROTE 'PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE')

You will enjoy the new insights that Rick Warren has, with his wife now having cancer and him having 'wealth' from the book sales. This is an absolutely incredible short interview with Rick Warren,'Purpose Driven Life ' author and pastor of Saddleback Church in California

In the interview by Paul Bradshaw with Rick Warren, Rick said:

People ask me, What is the purpose of life?

And I respond: In a nutshell, life is preparation for eternity. We were not
made to last forever, and God wants us to be with Him in Heaven.

One day my heart is going to stop, and that will be the end of my body--
but not the end of me.

I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of
years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants
us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity.

We were made by God and for God, and until you figure that out, life isn't
going to make sense.

Life is a series of problems: Either you are in one now, you're just coming
out of one, or you're getting ready to go into another one.

The reason for this is that God is more interested in your character than
your comfort; God is more interested in making your life holy than He is in
making your life happy.

We can be reasonably happy here on earth, but that's not the goal of life.
The goal is to grow in character, in Christ likeness.

This past year has been the greatest year of my life but also the toughest,
with my wife, Kay, getting cancer.

I used to think that life was hills and valleys - you go through a dark
time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don't believe that
anymore.

Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it's kind of like
two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and
something bad in your life.

No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad
that needs to be worked on.

And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something
good you can thank God for.

You can focus on your purposes, or you can focus on your problems:

If you focus on your problems, you're going into self-centeredness, which is
my problem, my issues, my pain.' But one of the easiest ways to get rid of
pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others.

We discovered quickly that in spite of the prayers of hundreds of thousands
of people, God was not going to heal Kay or make it easy for her- It has
been very difficult for her, and yet God has strengthened her character,
given her a ministry of helping other people, given her a testimony, drawn
her closer to Him and to people.

You have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life.

Actually, sometimes learning to deal with the good is harder. For instance,
this past year, all of a sudden, when the book sold 15 million copies, it
made me instantly very wealthy..

It also brought a lot of notoriety that I had never had to deal with before.
I don't think God gives you money or notoriety for your own ego or for you
to live a life of ease.

So I began to ask God what He wanted me to do with this money, notoriety and
influence. He gave me two different passages that helped me decide what to
do, II Corinthians 9 and Psalm 72.

First, in spite of all the money coming in, we would not change our
lifestyle one bit. We made no major purchases.

Second, about midway through last year, I stopped taking a salary from the
church.

Third, we set up foundations to fund an initiative we call The Peace Plan to
plant churches, equip leaders, assist the poor, care for the sick, and
educate the next generation.

Fourth, I added up all that the church had paid me in the 24 years since I
started the church, and I gave it all back. It was liberating to be able to
serve God for free.

We need to ask ourselves: Am I going to live for possessions? Popularity?

Am I going to be driven by pressures? Guilt? Bitterness? Materialism? Or am
I going to be driven by God's purposes (for my life)?

When I get up in the morning, I sit on the side of my bed and say, God, if I
don't get anything else done today, I want to know You more and love You
better God didn't put me on earth just to fulfill a to-do list. He's more
interested in what I am than what I do..

That's why we're called human beings, not human doings.

Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.

Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.

Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.

Painful moments, TRUST GOD.

Every moment, THANK GOD..

If you do not pass it on, nothing will happen. But it will just be nice to
pass it on to a friend...just like i have done.

God's Blessings to you and your family.

MAGNETIC POETRY

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 03:47:00 +0000

As I was doing my Christmas shopping this season, I came across a box of magnetic poetry. Inside the box are pieces of magnets with words. The objective is to create your own poetry using the words that are available. I first place them all on my refrigerator door and later on moved them to a magnetic bulletin board I have in my living room. Here are the poems I came up with:

The Benefits of Gratitude

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 01:11:00 +0000

Hey guys! You have all probably heard about the book The Secret, by Rhonda Byrne. It basically sums up all the secret there is to acheiving a happy, succesful and abundant life. It came out with the video that is even better than the book. Do find time to read

A Secret Scrolls message from Rhonda Byrne
Creator of The Secret

The greatest thief of human happiness and abundance is ungratefulness. Any lack in our lives - whether in money, health, or relationships - is simply the evidence of a lack of gratitude. If you focus on lack you are not being grateful, and that will bring more lack into your life. Yet the simple state of radiating gratitude summons everything to you.

No matter who you are or where you are, you can change your life with gratitude, but you must feel it with your whole heart and radiate it from every cell. Gratitude is not a mental exercise, and in fact, if you simply use your mind for gratitude it will have little or no power. True gratitude comes from your heart! You must think gratitude through your heart, speak gratitude through your heart, and feel it intensely in your heart.

Then practice gratitude relentlessly. As you practice gratitude you will attract more thoughts and feelings of gratitude. In a short time your entire being will be saturated with it, and you will experience a happiness that is beyond what you can imagine. This is what is ahead for you when you choose gratitude as your way of life. And if you can really live in this highest state of gratitude, you will never have to ask for anything. Everything you want will be given to you before you even ask, because gratitude is the magnetic substance that opens every single door in the Universe.

This Thursday is Thanksgiving in the United States. To celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to share an excerpt with you from The Secret Daily Teachings, which is being released in the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia on December 9th. This excerpt presents an easy way to start using gratitude and integrate it into your life by making every Thursday "Thank You Thursday." As you "Thank your way through every Thursday" you will open the most powerful receiving channel within you.

From The Secret Daily Teachings - Thank You Thursday

"Today is Thank You Thursday. Today and every Thursday is your day to say and feel "Thank you" in as many ways as you can.

Write a list of all the people and events you want to give thanks for.

Return thanks today to those who have done things for you.

As you walk say "Thank you" in your mind with each step you take.

As you drive, make each time you stop your cue to say "Thank you."

At various times in the day, think and feel "Thank you" inside you seven times in a row.

Look for every opportunity to say "Thank you" to other people, and say it with so much meaning that the person looks right at you.

Thank your way through every Thursday, and make "Thank you" your predominant thought, feeling, and words of the day.

"Thank you" - two words, inconceivable potential power, and all they need is you to put the power into them by expressing them.

Thank you!"
. . .

May the joy of gratitude be in your heart,

Rhonda Byrne
The Secret... bringing joy to billions

SPOTLIGHT ARTISTS WORKSHOP

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 01:53:00 +0000

In the past 3 months, I have been attending integrated acting, writing and directing workshops facilitated by renowned stage director and movie critique, Nestor Torre at the Spotlight Artists Centre, that is being run and operated by the performing couple Robert Sena and Isay Alvarez. I will have to say that it was a very interesting workshop where we got to learn about techniques in integrating acting, scriptwriting, and directing in order to become a better artist. Last Oct 29, 2008, the workshoppers decided to culminate the activities with a showcase of talents we called "Works in Progress". I did a comedic molonogue about a tips on becoming a beauty queen written by Reign Loleng. Today, Nestor Torre commented about my acting on his Showbiz and Style article on the Philippines Daily Inquirer. To read the article, click here. Robert also upload pictures on his multiply site. To view, click here. So what do you think? Do you think I will have bright career in acting? What kind of roles would you like to see me do?

US Elections

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 14:08:00 +0000

In the past weeks, there has been a lot of flack against the McCain and Palin tendem and it is beginning to be clearer to a whole lot more people that McCain has questionable credibility and that Palin is not prepared to be Vice President. In contrast to these criticisms, I was going through all the different videos on You Tube and chanced upon Barack Obama's ad to change America. One of them even told about his track record in helping to make a difference in people's lives. Another one talks about Obama's plans for America. As of this writing, Yahoo election coverage indicates polls are at 50.5% for Obama and 43.6% for McCain. The few of days before the US Elections leaves the whole world waiting with bated breaths as to the results of America's vote. When America sneezes, the whole world get a cold and whatever happens to America obviously has an effect on the rest of the world. I really do hope that America will choose the right candidate to be President this time around.

I LOVE MY NEW HAIRCUT!

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 02:18:00 +0000

After a whole year of deliberating, I finally decided to get a new makeover yesterday. Jas Lisbona and Chrissy Calderon of Hairworks Salon on 108 Legaspi Street, Makati ( Tel. 8884819) suggested that I have my hair layers and colored with some highlights. The pictures above were our pegs for the kind of cut we would like . I spent 4 hours of coloring with Chrissy using some black shine and L'Oreal's newest shade: maple rose for the highlights followed by Jas Lisbona's wonder scissors. In total, I was at the salon for 6 hours. Imagine that! Anyway, here is how I looked before and after. (Hey, I know the after picture could be better if only I wore some makeup but this is as fresh as it could get after all that work.) What do you think? :)

ESCADA OPENING

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 15:50:00 +0000

ESCADA store just opened in Greenbelt 5. It was attended by quite an illustrious set of guests. Wine and hors d'ouvres were flowing. I came in a graduated pink draped tube dress by Rhett Eala. Johnny Litton hosted the event as the guests await the Fall & Winter 2008 Collection fashion show. When the models finally came strutting, everybody gasped at the classy designs and elegant cuts of the outfits. Predominant colors were purple, orange, fuschia, lime green to brighten the darker winter days, all against a neutral/black canvass and heeled black boots. Yum! I love dressing up for the fall. Escada showed fuschia suits and classic cut dresses. St. John's collection was mostly evening dresses. I love, love, love this bronze evening dress from St. John and this white jacket from Escada Sport.

TULAAN SA TREN

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 07:54:00 +0000

There opportunities to be seen and known on the spotlight and there are opportunities for people who are known to shine a light on causes they feel are worthy of the light. Here is the latest project of the National Book Development Board (NBDB): Tulaan sa Tren. This is the latest addition to the Get Caught Reading Campaign of the NBDB.

Several celebs were invited to read poetry that were written by Pinoys. These were later broadcasted on MRT trains all over the metro at certain times of the day.

It was quite interesting to be reading those poems as I feel that it required a whole lot of understanding of the writer's intentions for writing those poems. I found myself being drawn the into emotion of whatever was required by the writer, even to the point of tearing up.

YOU ARE ALWAYS FREE TO START OVER

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 07:21:00 +0000

Here's an article I came across three years ago that has caused me to change course when I thought I didn't like the direction I was headed. I am once again on the same road, not as drastic a move as I did back then. Nonetheless, this article is still very apt and I hope it could enlighten some of us who are looking for a fresh start.

YOU ARE ALWAYS FREE TO START OVER. No matter what your problem, when something is not working, you can decide to stop playing. If you are experiencing friction or feeling resentment, your soul may be calling for you to end this ... so you can start that.
This does not mean that you cannot succeed, but your soul may be telling you that the direction you are going is not taking you where you want to be. And by admitting that an aspect of your life is not working, you are freed to begin moving in a new direction that will work.
Before deciding to start over, you may want to explore any personal fears that are motivating the need to begin again. Resentment is a fear-based emotion obviously based upon you wanting someone else to be the way you want them to be. Is that justified? And know that if you are holding on to a past hurt, the other person is keeping you a prisoner in the here and now.
Assuming you can release any fear-based emotions (especially blame) relating to your wanting to start over, the best place to begin self-processing is to explore what is true for you. Being true to yourself is more important than your fear of consequences? When you are not true to yourself you are living in fear.
You also do not want to live in fear of what others might think about you starting over.
Once you have decided to start over, it will be time to stop explaining yourself to other people. It is your right to offer no excuses or justifications for your decisions or behavior. You may want to explain why you have acted in a particular way to those with whom you share a close relationship, but you do not owe anyone an explanation. Excuses and explanations weaken your position.
We all find ourselves in positions in which others imply that we owe them an explanation. Most of us are so well trained that we react automatically and comply with their wishes without thinking. All too often we explain ourselves even when no one has asked "why." It is often hardest not to offer an explanation to a good friend, but why should a friend force you to explain your actions? If your friend is incapable of accepting your rights then maybe she is incapable of relating to you on any basis but manipulation.
To start over also means leaving behind your old ideas about yourself.

WINDMILLS

noreply@blogger.com (MQ) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 08:42:00 +0000

windmills whirling in my head..
strong wind against blades of white.
how can a strong force of nature
create energy so fierce
it can generate so much electricity
between bodies of light
to influence a generation
and create ripples of brightness
for the nation?