This Is What My Mother Is Like

Of all the people who have inspired, touched, and shaped me into who I am today, my mother stands at the very top of that list. If I had to name someone who lived like a true martyr—always selfless, always giving—she would be a finalist without question.

Growing up, I constantly saw her working. As a frontliner, her job demanded odd hours and endless shifts. One moment that has stayed with me happened when I was still young. She was about to leave the house, and I asked where she was going. She simply said, “Work.” I remember replying, half frustrated and half joking, “Duty, always duty!”—or in our native tongue, “Duty ng duty, parating na lang duty.” That line became a running joke between us. Every time I’d call and she’d say she was working, I’d say it again. It made us both laugh, but deep down, it also reminded me of how much she sacrificed.

She was more than a mother—she was my personal advisor, my biggest cheerleader, my on-call doctor, and my best friend. I know a lot of people say their mom is their best friend, but truly, mine was. She was always on the go, always available, and always willing to help anyone who needed her.

Now that I’m a mother myself, I find myself still turning to her for advice. I carry with me the values and lessons she passed down, and I try to apply them every day. She was—and still is—the pillar of my life and the vessel that keeps my heart grounded.

My biggest wish is for God to bless her with a long, healthy life, so I can return the love and care she gave us. I know people say it’s not our responsibility to repay our parents, but for me, it’s a personal choice. A calling. She gave up so much for us. She even passed on certain opportunities just so she could stay close and be there for us. She made sure we were never alone and that we always felt loved and supported.

So, as long as she walks this earth, I will do my best to give her everything I can—not because I have to, but because I want to. Because she deserves every good thing this life can offer. And if I could give her the world, I would. She’s earned it a thousand times over.