Jason B. Neola, CMO-Public Information Division head
NAGA CITY, Philippines — The betterment and welfare of families remain a top priority in the leadership of Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo, as reflected in her 2028 Finish Lines vision, which places family well-being among the key areas of the city government’s development agenda.
Robredo underscored this commitment by recognizing the sacrifices of parents, particularly mothers who wake up early every day to attend to their children and other family needs, as the city concluded its celebration of the 34th National Family Week on Oct. 2.
Speaking during the closing symposium, Robredo said mothers often have to sleep at night only to wake up early the following day to work and make sure that the needs of their families and children are taken care of.
“Every day is a family day,” Robredo said, while acknowledging the daily responsibilities undertaken by mothers and other parents.
But Robredo said the challenge facing families today is how to empower them and make them stronger.
“Our objective is not to punish delinquent children but to help them not to become one, or provide them with help so they can amend their ways,” she said.
She said parents’ obligation to their children does not end when they become adults and raise their own families. “We are always there to help them so they will not go astray,” Robredo said.
She encouraged parents’ groups in the city to focus on initiatives that care for and support their children.
The city’s celebration was highlighted by the 2026 Family Week Color Fun Run on Sept. 26, which drew around 4,000 parents and children. The celebration culminated in a symposium on Oct. 2, attended by at least 267 participants, 60% of whom were families.
The symposium tackled “Faith and Family: Strengthening Values for Social Development” and “Empowered Families and Stronger Communities for Children and Promoting Mental Health in Families.”
The speakers were Rev. Steven Gianan, head chaplain of NACPHIL, and Jacques S. Celaje Jr., Physical Therapist II of the Department of Health’s Human Resources for Health program.
The activities were conducted by the Naga City Government in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, Naga City People’s Council, Bureau of Fire Protection, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, NACPHIL, Department of Education-Naga and the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas.
The Family Week celebration highlighted the city government’s efforts to recognize parents’ daily responsibilities while providing opportunities for families to spend time together, strengthen their relationships and promote their overall well-being.
