Back in Manila for a brief visit, the former queen reflects on her journey, offers advice to candidates, and opens up about life abroad.
Miss International 2005 Precious Lara Quigaman expressed excitement over her return to the Binibining Pilipinas stage after spending the past few years living abroad.
Now based in Canada with her husband, Marco Alcaraz, and their three boys, Quigaman said her recent visit to the Philippines was brief, but meaningful. She also shared her intention to return for the coronation night.
“It’s been three years since my last Binibining Pilipinas, and it’s really good to be back. We have a really good batch this year, and I’m so proud of them they’re all smart,” she said.
“I’m hoping to be back for the coronation, but I’m flying back to Canada. I’m actually here for an event, then I’m going back the next day but I’m hoping to return for the coronation,” she added.
Finding purpose beyond the crown
Drawing from her experience, Quigaman emphasized that beyond beauty, purpose plays a crucial role in the competition.
“Everyone is obviously beautiful, we know that. But I told them that I really want to hear their ‘why.’ Why are they joining Binibining Pilipinas? We really have to listen to their stories about why they are here and why they want to join,” she explained.
When asked about the country’s chances in international pageants, she maintained that there is no guaranteed formula for success.
“I don’t think there’s a secret. Every year, like last time, Myrna (Esguerra) was so close and she really did so well. If it’s really God’s will for your life, it will happen. Our Binibinis give their all, they do everything they can to win. So if it’s really for them, it will be for them. There’s no secret,” she said.
For now, Quigaman shared that her family continues to enjoy their life in Canada, although she remains open to whatever the future may bring.
“At the moment, my children are really enjoying their life in Canada. We can never tell what’s going to happen whatever God’s will is. If we have to go back, then we will. But for now, we’re staying put,” she said.
Outside of pageantry and showbiz, Quigaman has been focusing on teaching younger children and doing out-of-school care, alongside caring for her family.
“That’s what I’ve been doing, teaching younger kids and doing out-of-school care, too. And of course, taking care of my boys and my husband,” she shared.
Prioritizing health and spiritual peace
She also reassured supporters that her health is currently in a good place after a recent scare.
Last month, she revealed that her husband had to call emergency services after she experienced severe chest pain. She underwent a series of tests to determine what was happening, though doctors said it was not cardio-related.
Quigaman said she used her time in the hospital for prayer and reflection, expressing gratitude for the experience and the lessons that came with it.
“Let us all take care of our hearts physically, emotionally, and spiritually. May we always be reminded to slow down and remember that peace doesn’t come from perfect results, it comes from knowing who holds our life,” she shared.
From the pageant stage to her life abroad, Quigaman continues to embrace each chapter with faith, purpose, and grace.
If it’s really God’s will for your life, it will happen. Our Binibinis give their all, they do everything they can to win. So if it’s really for them, it will be for them. There’s no secret.
Precious Lara Quigaman
