Calling them “unsung heroes,” Vice President Sara Duterte on Sunday, May 12, turned the spotlight on the role that mothers play in nation building and the sacrifices they make for their families.

Vice President Sara Duterte (Inday Sara Duterte/Facebook)

In her Mother’s Day message, the official hailed mothers who shoulder the weight of their families’ welfare.
 

“Sa lahat ng inang nagsusumikap mapabuti ang kalagayan ng kanilang pamilya—sa loob man o sa labas ng bansa, sa sariling tahanan man o sa kani-kaniyang propesyon—hindi po masusukat ang inyong napakahalagang papel sa pagbuo ng matatag na sambayanang aakay sa atin patungo sa mas maunlad na kinabukasan (To all mothers who work hard to improve the welfare of their families—whether here or abroad, in their own homes or professions—your role in nation building that will guide us to a better tomorrow is immeasurable),” she said.
 

The Vice President thanked mothers for their “selfless sacrifices” every day as they nurture and care for their families, saying that their “love and guidance pave the way for brighter futures and stronger communities.”
 

She assured mothers that she is one with them in hoping for a better future for the children, community, and the country through their hard work and sacrifice.
 

“To all the mothers out there, thank you for your love, wisdom and dedication. You inspire us to make a difference every single day,” she said.
 

In the Philippines, Mother’s Day follows the United States’ tradition of celebrating it annually on the second Sunday of May.
 

It is meant to honor mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and anyone who plays mothering roles in one’s life.
 

In countries where it is celebrated, families come together for reunions, as well as to give gifts and flowers to their mothers or those who played the role of mother in their lives.