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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Parenting devider What's one small thing that makes you feel loved as a parent?

What's one small thing that makes you feel loved as a parent?

Published Feb 14, 2026 08:32 am
A message sent in the middle of the day, a surprise hug, a request to sit beside you—these are the welcomed interruptions that remind us of what truly matters. These moments may be small and almost ordinary, but for parents, they are precious. We asked some of them to share the simple things their children do that make them feel most loved.
Arlene with husband Lord and their children, Nina, 29, and Lucas, 19
Arlene with husband Lord and their children, Nina, 29, and Lucas, 19
A message in the middle of the day
I really feel the love from my kids when they send me reels, GIFs, and posts on how moms are important in their lives. It’s a simple gesture, but it shows they think about me in their busy lives, and I am part of that mind space. I feel blessed by this technology that keeps us connected.—Arlene Tan‑Bantoto, general manager of Wyeth Philippines, business executive officer of Nestlé Nutrition, and mom of two
Audrey with husband Carlo with their children Theo, 9, Xandro, 5, and Joaquin, 4
Audrey with husband Carlo with their children Theo, 9, Xandro, 5, and Joaquin, 4
Running hugs and saved seats
Love from my four- and five-year-olds looks like asking to be carried even when their legs work perfectly fine. I always say yes. It’s my most reliable way to steal a full-body hug from two constantly moving boys. With my nine-year-old, love is quieter. He shares secrets, asks my opinion, and remembers me in small, thoughtful ways. All three somehow save me a bit of their favorite things and choose the seat beside me. But nothing beats the running hugs and the way their faces light up when they see me, like I’m the best part of their day. Honestly, that’s the best part of mine.—Audrey Pastelero, co-founder of Momzilla and Milk Easy, and mom of three
Apple with husband Quincy, and their daughters Isabelle, 10, and Iliana, 1
Apple with husband Quincy, and their daughters Isabelle, 10, and Iliana, 1
When they ask you to stay
One small thing that makes us feel loved as parents is when our daughter asks to spend time with us. When our older one says, “Mom, sit with me,” or wants us to join what she’s doing, it shows us that even as kids grow, they still choose to be close. And with our baby, it’s when she rushes to us and asks to be carried the moment we get home. Those little invitations to be together remind me and my husband that their needs are simple. Most days, all they really want is our time and presence—and remembering that resets everything.—Apple Sydiongco-Delos Reyes, architect, senior project development manager of Filinvest Alabang, Inc., and mom of two

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