Joey Marquez recalls telling partner Malu Quintana: Don't change me, let me change

Joey Marquez opened up about the transformative power of acceptance in his relationship with his partner, Malu Quintana, revealing a core philosophy that has guided his personal evolution.

On Wednesday's "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda," Joey said that the best thing about Malu is that she's very understanding, listens well, and accepted him for who he is.

"Sabi ko nga sa kanya, 'Malu, don't have a mistake of changing me. Let me change. Just don't dictate the changes. On my own. Kasi one day, I will realize that I have to change,'" Joey said.

He applies the same principle to Malu, saying he would not try to change her, instead allowing her to change on her own, believing this reciprocity signifies a truly committed relationship.

"Doon ang ultimate time na talagang kayo na talaga," he said.

When asked to offer advice for women on understanding men, Joey said that sometimes, men seek options.

"Men are born polygamous by nature. Ang lalaki talaga, minsan, naghahanap. Pero, minsan kasi kumukuha lang siya ng options eh. Pero once they found the real one, kahit balibaliktarin mo 'yan, hindi na aalis sa 'yan," Joey said.

Despite this, Joey said that he is now "very monogamous."

"That's part of my journey, part of my learning, and part of what I am right now," he said.

Joey is a proud dad to 16 children with different women. One of his daughters is Winwyn Marquez. —Carby Rose Basina/MGP, GMA Integrated News