She was the girl with the big smile, the one who made millions laugh every Sunday night on “Goin’ Bulilit.” But behind that bright face was a story that would unfold into one of the most inspiring journeys in Philippine showbiz. Miles Ocampo, once the cheerful child star, is now a woman who has faced illness, heartbreak, and pressure—and came back stronger, wiser, and more radiant than ever.

Born Camille Tan Hojilla on May 1, 1997, Miles entered the industry as early as age 6. Her first major exposure came from a hotdog commercial, but it was her regular stint on “Goin’ Bulilit” that truly catapulted her to fame. For years, she played the mischievous, witty girl on ABS-CBN’s beloved sketch comedy show. Viewers watched her grow up—literally—in front of the camera.

But child stardom can be both a blessing and a burden. While her peers were navigating high school drama, Miles was memorizing scripts and performing before a national audience. As she transitioned to teenage roles in shows like “Luv U” and “Home Sweetie Home,” fans saw a graceful evolution—but inside, Miles admits, she often questioned her place. “I used to compare myself with other stars,” she shared in an interview. “There were times I felt left behind.”

Still, she persisted. She found refuge in her studies, enrolling at the University of the Philippines with a degree in Creative Writing. While many expected her to dive head-first into mainstream stardom, she quietly sharpened her craft, choosing projects that challenged her rather than just kept her visible. In time, she would earn recognition not only for her versatility, but also for her depth.

Then came a life-altering turn.

In early 2023, Miles was diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma, a type of thyroid cancer. She had to undergo surgery to remove her thyroid. The procedure was successful, but the physical and emotional toll was immense. Her weight fluctuated. Her mood changed. She lost confidence in how she looked—and, more painfully, in how she was perceived. “In this industry, how you look matters so much,” she confessed. “And when you’re healing, when your body is changing, you start questioning everything.”

But what emerged from that darkness was not weakness—it was a fierce, unshakable strength. Rather than hide, Miles went public with her condition. She became a voice for young women facing health battles. Her honesty was raw, unfiltered, and deeply moving. “I just want people to know that it’s okay to struggle. What matters is that you stand up again,” she said.

Stand up she did.

In late 2023, Miles won Best Supporting Actress at the Metro Manila Film Festival for her performance in “Family of Two.” The role was emotionally taxing, demanding her to dig deep into her pain and compassion. But critics and audiences alike were blown away. It was a crowning moment for a woman who had fought through illness and doubt and found her light again.

She also found joy in hosting. In 2022, she became part of the legendary “Eat Bulaga!” cast. Her warm, witty persona was a perfect fit. When TVJ Productions transitioned to “E.A.T.,” she continued with the team, often stealing laughs with her unexpected punchlines and heartfelt rapport with contestants.

But perhaps what makes Miles even more remarkable is her humility. In an industry often obsessed with image, she remains grounded. “I’m not perfect,” she often says. “I have insecurities. I make mistakes. But every day, I try to be better—for myself and for those who believe in me.”

Romantically, Miles had a public relationship with actor Elijah Canlas, which ended quietly in 2023. She never spoke negatively about the breakup, only expressing gratitude for the lessons. “Every relationship teaches you something. And that’s enough,” she said softly.

These days, she keeps her circle small and her goals big. She hopes to write a screenplay, maybe even direct one day. She mentors younger actors when she can and is slowly becoming one of the most respected artists of her generation—not just for her work, but for her spirit.

And she continues to heal. Though she will have to take medication for life, she embraces it with grace. “I don’t see it as a limitation. It’s part of who I am now. And if that helps me understand myself better, then I welcome it.”

The girl who once danced in school uniforms on comedy skits is now a woman who speaks with clarity, acts with depth, and lives with purpose. Miles Ocampo is more than her roles, more than her awards, and certainly more than her diagnosis.

She is a survivor. A storyteller. A fighter.

And she’s just getting started.