Marina Benipayo: Model mom

MANILA, Philippines - It all started with Bodyshots, a modeling contest organized by the Fashion Designers Association of the Philippines in 1988. After bagging the grand title for the competition, top model Marina Benipayo sashayed her way to the top. To this day, she is still undoubtedly in top form.

When she won Bb. Pilipinas Maja-International in 1992, not only did she have a beauty title under her belt — she was also to be known as one of the country’s top models. Aside from countless modeling stints in the Philippines, Marina also joined fashion designer Renee Salud in trips abroad to do modeling projects for the Department of Tourism. This once-in-a-lifetime experience gave her the chance to learn about various cultures as they went to as many as 11 countries across Asia and Europe.

After enumerating the turning points in her life, Marina, 42, pauses and says, “I realized how lucky I am to still be modeling at my age for even young designers. I’ve always thought that in modeling, you’re only as good as your last show. So I make sure each show is memorable.”

Perhaps the best beauty secret she can share is to have a positive and happy disposition in life. She doesn’t have to go too far to find the source of such bliss. Asked on what makes her happy, she gladly responds, “Spending a free and lazy day with my kids while eating chocolate!” To Mark, 15, and Joshua, 13, Marina is not only their mother; she is also their loyal best friend and crazy weird sister.

“The most important part of my life is when I became a mom in 1994. Giving birth to Mark had tested my faith in God and prepared me for the privilege of being responsible for another life. Joshua followed in 1997 and they have always been my source of happiness,” says Marina, whose mothering style allows her to encourage her kids to keep asking questions so as not to leave them guessing all the time and giving them her full support in whatever they do. Marina looks up to her own mother. “She is an excellent cook and a good sewer. She has allowed me to make my own decisions,” she says.

Marina, despite her busy modeling schedule, was able to finish school in St. Scholastica’s Academy and even obtained an International Studies degree from Miriam College. Currently finishing her master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling, Marina conducts personality development seminars. “I wish to be able to spread the word that beauty is not limited to external factors. It is a combination of self-discipline, character-building and self-motivation to be more than what you think you can become,” she shares. Marina also holds Styling classes at the School of Fashion and the Arts (SoFA) and furthers that it has always been a fulfilling experience to be able to be part of the knowledge development of the younger generation. She explains, “I do not only teach the syllabus. I also make sure that the students are mentally prepared for future challenges. I also would want to have the chance to be able to teach ramp modeling.”

Although she is a believer that beauty is more than skin-deep, Marina also acknowledges the importance of looking physically good. “When a woman looks good, she feels good!” muses Marina, whose beauty secrets include exercise, good hygiene and enough sleep. “Wearing makeup is important, especially when meeting clients, because this sends a non-verbal message to them that you have put in much effort in preparation to meet them.”

Ever Bilena products that are must-haves in her makeup kit are Advance Two-way Cake, Advance Perfect Eye Concealer in Medium, Advance High Definition Waterproof Mascara, Pro Bronzing Powder in Light Bronze and Magic Lipstick with Vitamin E.

“At any moment, you have a choice that will lead you closer to your spirit or farther away from it,” believes Marina. So she chooses to be happy — and effortlessly beautiful at the same time!

Photography by Mau Aguasin • Styling and creative direction by Luis Espiritu Jr. • Associate stylist: REG RODRIGUEZ • Hair and makeup by Thoty Primavera for Ever Bilena • Wardrobe by Randy Ortiz for Myth • Accessories by Tweetie de Leon for Myth • Shot on location at Dusit Thani Manila • Special thanks to Ms. Danelle Palang