FATHERS are different from mothers. They show their love to their children in their own special, unique ways. Some fathers are not vocal, some are stiff but keep an eye on them during the special moments in their kids’ life and you will see in their eyes the purest and most genuine love a father can possess.
In a traditional set-up, fathers are usually the disciplinarian while mothers are those whose cuddles and kisses we look forward to when we were kids. But times do change. Even fathers now are becoming more and more expressive of their care and love towards their children. Despite their busy schedule and workload, they make time to bond with their family.
Understanding that family time is most vital compared to any career, job, or friends, these three successful fathers we talked to share the secret to having a balanced career and family life. They also share what for them is the best part of being a father.
Keeping my energy up is crucial so I try to live a healthy and active lifestyle. I make it a priority to schedule my own personal workouts as well as enjoy family sports activities together during weekends. The non-negotiables for me would be Sundays and dinners. Everyone just has to be there and enjoy them as a family.
Different fathers have different definitions of success. To me, you’re the most successful if you are able to raise kids who are kind, humble, hardworking, and contributing members of the society. My advice to first time fathers is to spend as much time with your kids, enjoy the journey, celebrate life, and raise your kids to be the best that they can be.
John Naranjo
CEO & Founder, Ingenuity
Father of 3
Breakfast time is always family time. I spend my first few hours of the day with my kids and wife. I try to schedule meetings and other social and public events at 10 a.m. onwards as much as possible. I go home as soon as I can as I prioritize having dinner at home with the family. At times, I have my family follow me to my events and we’d be together after.
For me, the best thing about being a father is the opportunity to nurture, laugh with, and grow with my children.
Dr. Bernard Al-ag
Davao City Vice Mayor
Entrepreneur
Father of 3
Being in government service and be assigned to an agency that holds office in Manila requires me to be away from home most of the time. It is really a sacrifice but I see to it to go home to Davao on weekends to be with my family. I miss them a lot so I have to spend time with my wife and daughter during these days.
To me there’s no secret with time management. All you have to do is to make sure when you are going to see them. Just find time to be with them and it comes naturally.
The best part of being a father for is to talk to my daughter and share stories and laughter with her, even thru the phone if I am in Manila or elsewhere. I remember the day when Andie was born, upon hearing her first cry. That was the happiest day of my life.
Charles Raymond Maxey
Commissioner, Philippine Sports Commission
Father of one
To all the fathers out there, this is your day. Happy father’s day! We all hope you enjoy your time with your family. The world needs more great fathers to hone the next generation of fathers and mothers.
I have made it a habit to do things that my wife and I enjoy doing together. The same goes with my daughter. My wife and I love to eat thus a weekly date would be in order. To compensate the carb loading, my daughter and I would join fun and trail runs.
The best thing about being a father is that you get to hug people you love. Hugging is good for me as it reduces anxiety and stress.
Rossano Luga
Assistant Vice President, Reputation Enhancement Department
Davao Light and Power Company
Father of one