GUEST COLUMNIST

Giving back especially to the country and to the people in need is a fundamental act we should do as good citizens and humans. But trust a mother to give something more because it is in her core to care, protect, and defend her loved ones. I believe, and as I have seen with fellow mothers at work, the same compassion and empathy that has been cultivated at home with their children are carried on among the people that they serve.

Today, Mother's Day, let me salute our dear homemaker public servants who show up every day in their respective public offices to put their personal interests above others, serve with integrity and humility, and ensure the public's trust and confidence in their officers are maintained through their sincere assistance.

Being a mother brings joyous moments but it also comes with several challenges. For instance, moms put on many hats, from home keepers to personal caregivers, educators, drivers, spiritual advisors, pacifiers, even event organizers, and so much more. It's not because we're forced to do these, on the contrary, and as a study by the National Library of Medicine reveals, it's in a mother's nature to nurture and protect. A mother's brain adapts to her new body functions and sharpens her anticipation of her infants' needs. The study showed that the change in the brain's function and attachment due to pregnancy and child-rearing are long-term and enduring.

A mother's instinct is so potent and driven. In my case, and while my work is of utmost importance, I've somehow learned to compartmentalize my time to be able to fulfill my goals for the day so that I could leave my office in Manila at a certain time to return to my home in Pampanga to be with my daughter.

I'm also amazed when I see mothers working in government offices. They approach their duties with laser focus, all while taking the time to patiently connect with citizens who need assistance with their documents or have concerns about filing.

Patience is an underrated virtue; just look at a working mom who can deal with the most difficult clients. Little does the latter know, that the charming and understanding woman before them has years of experience raising one demanding child or a bunch of hyperactive kids! There is a deeper dimension in care and kind-heartedness in mothers because we've been trained through the years to put ourselves in other people's shoes.

It takes a certain strength and fortitude to dedicate one's life to government service while being a mother at that. All we ever want is to give our loved ones a good life and a secure future. And being in public service broadens our hope and vision. A mom will take the time to understand and listen to how she can help a person who has been marginalized or made vulnerable. A mom will help another mother or child because she understands their struggles. She will support her community because, yes, she knows it takes a village to raise a child. These things are often taken for granted because society thinks it's just a job. 

But mothers know best. They lead and serve without seeking any recognition, or no matter how much they are compensated. To help, to show one's love for the country is natural for mothers in public service. For sure, many will shy away or feel surprised when told they are unsung heroes in many ways, which is what usually happens when I compliment a mom in government who works hard and is happily fulfilling her humble duties. Oh, you are, I would always insist: Yes you are, you are an unsung hero who sparks inspiration that's especially needed during this time of healing and recovery.

A blessed Mother's Day to all!