They may be tough, strict, fearless, indefatigable, and the “Boss” in the cities that they lead, but at home, they are Mama, Mommy, Nanay, which are endearments from their children that they hold close to their hearts more than any other title.
Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, Pasay City Mayor Emi Calixto-Rubiano, Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar, and Makati City Mayor Abby Binay were asked five questions on motherhood by the Metro Team.
We salute these women, these mothers, who despite their tough job as local executives, have been able to juggle their professional and personal lives quite well.
Q: If you were to be described in one word as a mother, what would it be?
Mayor Honey: Devoted
Mayor Emi: Selfless
Mayor Jeannie: Sanctuary or “Tahanan”
Mayor Mel: Warmhearted
Mayor Abby: Balanced
Q: As a mother, what have been the greatest lessons that you imparted to your children?
Mayor Honey: My daughter always tells me that I taught her what unconditional love is. That’s a gift I carry with me everywhere I go. To know that I have cared for my daughter well enough for her to know that no matter what, my love for her will never change, is one of my brightest blessings.
Mayor Emi: That success is measured not by plaques or recognitions but through the number of lives made better in every day.
Mayor Jeannie: The importance of empathy and selflessness. I teach them that life is enriched when we strive to be of value to others, to serve and support our fellow human beings without expecting anything in return. I encourage my child to approach life with compassion, to extend a helping hand whenever possible, and to understand that true happiness comes from making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Mayor Mel: Never forget where you came from and treat everyone with respect. Always have a grateful heart.
Mayor Abby: The value of responsibility and kindness. It’s essential to be responsible for our actions and decisions, but equally important to approach the world with kindness and empathy. These values not only shape a strong character but also help in building a compassionate community.
Q: Are you the disciplinarian or the spoiler?
Mayor Honey: I’m definitely a mix of both! The best anecdote for this is how, when she was young, I bought my daughter every single Barbie doll but didn’t let her play with them. I told her to keep them in the box so she could have a high-value collection of dolls when she got older. Some people might say that’s torture, but to this day, my daughter laughs about it and tells people that’s what taught her discipline! I believe that an equal level of discipline and pleasure is what makes for a good life.
Mayor Emi: The beauty of parenthood comes with the innate ability of a parent to adjust and be flexible when it comes to raising children. Like any mother, I found the balance between being a disciplinarian and a spoiler.
Mayor Jeannie: Being a mother demands flexibility. While both roles stem from love, whether I am a disciplinarian or a spoiler depends on the circumstances. Naturally, my instinct is to spoil my child, provide him with the best and shield him from life's hardships. However, I assume the role of a disciplinarian when my child errs and requires correction. In such instances, I exhibit tough love and guide him toward growth.
Mayor Mel: I am a balancer.
Mayor Abby: I think every parent plays a bit of both roles; however, I lean more toward being a disciplinarian when it comes to academics and responsibilities. It’s important to establish a framework of discipline and hard work early on. Yet, I also believe in rewarding hard work and allowing space for fun and relaxation.
Q: How do you want your children to remember you?
Mayor Honey: I want my daughter to remember me when she remembers the word “love.” Truly, the best gift I could ever receive is the knowledge that my daughter knows I love her unconditionally and that she’s equipped to face the world with that love.
Mayor Emi: As a light that is able to brighten even the darkest paths. As the compass that guides her children. “I want my children to remember me fondly, especially during the high points in their lives—during their moments of sheer joy and contentment, I want them to remember that these are the moments that I wished and prayed for them to have and acquire.” She adds, “On the other end, I would like them to remember me also in times of trials and obstacles, hoping that my memory will spark in them the much-needed energy, passion, and determination to pass through difficulties with high spirits, contented hearts, and victorious minds.”
Mayor Jeannie: I want my child to remember me by living a life based on the values I imparted to him. I want my son Chino to remember me by leading a life rooted on goodness and integrity, with the values I’ve imparted serving as an integral part of his journey. I hope that the lessons I’ve taught him will continue to shape his character and influence his decisions, allowing my presence to persist in his life through the values we’ve shared.
Mayor Mel: I want to be remembered as an all-out mother who thinks more of my children than myself.
Mayor Abby: I want Martina to remember me as a loving mother who not only set a strong example of leadership and integrity but also as someone who was always there for her—encouraging, supporting, and loving unconditionally.
Q: What would you like to tell other mothers who are struggling, who are abused, who are away from their children toiling in other lands?
Mayor Honey: I would like for all of the mothers in less fortunate circumstances to know that their hard work is seen and appreciated. You may not see it now, but your children notice and appreciate all that you do for them far more than you realize. In the same token, your children do not want you to unduly suffer for them. Motherhood is not just the labor you provide for your children, and you are not less of a parent for seeking help and taking care of yourself as well.
Mayor Emi: Being aware of the generational gap and differences, Mayor Emi illustrates the point of connecting mothers to their children, in action, in practice, and in respect. “If there are things that we can learn from the generations after us, it would be best to highlight the importance of self-love. A kind of love that seemed so foreign to us before, yet has proven to be so vital in life. As they say, you cannot pour from an empty cup—so we must be sure that a mother's cup is full of love, joy, optimism, and faith, so that we can pour these blessings onto the lives of our children and all those who we hold near and dear to our hearts.
Mayor Jeannie: To all the struggling or abused mothers out there, I want you to know that you are not alone. Whatever hardships you may have faced or are currently enduring do not define your worth as mothers. Your past does not dictate your future, and the wounds you carry do not diminish the greatness within you as mothers. And to those mothers who are working tirelessly in distant lands, separated from their children, I offer my utmost respect and admiration. Motherhood is already an immense challenge on its own, bearing the weight of nurturing and guiding another human being through life. Doing so while being away from your loved ones makes you true heroes in your own right. Remember, your sacrifices, your resilience, and your love for your children are immeasurable. Despite the distance or the struggles, your commitment to motherhood shines brightly, and your dedication will always be celebrated. You are seen, you are valued, and you are appreciated beyond measure.
Mayor Mel: Always build a strong communication with your children. Never get tired of letting them feel the love and care that you have for them. Accept individual differences and be adamant in expressing how much you value them.
Mayor Abby: Stay strong and believe in your resilience. Each challenge you face builds strength and character. It’s important to seek support from your family, friends, and your community and never hesitate to ask for help when needed. Remember, your efforts are laying the foundation for a brighter future for your children, making your sacrifices truly worthwhile. Above all, maintain hope and let your love for your children be your motivation to get up every morning and keep going.