Prince Ipyo

Vice President Inday Sara Duterte honored fathers and anyone who played paternal roles for Father’s Day on Sunday, June 18, as she credited them for their “wisdom” and “guidance,” which are “sources of strength.”

In her Father’s Day message, the official described fathers as those “who embody strength, responsibility, and hard work — the fathers whose sacrifices became the strong foundations of our homes.”

“A father's wisdom, guidance, and support are vital sources of our strength and values, helping us navigate life and overcome the challenges we face as individuals, as a family, and as a community,” she added.

Without mentioning her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, the official said fathers “are our role models of determination, discipline, and dedication to building a secure future.”

Duterte furthered that even as adults, any “responsible father” would continue to play a “significant” role in their children’s lives by “giving them guidance, inspiration, and the fundamental qualities of a person building a reliable, dependable, and strong family.”

“As sons and daughters, we should be eternally grateful to our fathers and every person who played paternal roles to us — people whose presence made our lives more meaningful,” she added.

Last year, father’s day fell on Duterte’s inauguration in Davao City, where the former chief executive was in attendance.

“Today is Father’s Day. This is a time for families to celebrate — but you are here with me,” she said then.

She shared a hug with the older Duterte before formally taking her oath of office.