A Mother's Choice

 Year 2007

I was living in a rented apartment in Balayan, Batangas when my then two-year-old daughter suddenly dashed outside toward the gate of our compound.

She was a precocious child, her curiosity nearly giving me a heart attack on more than one occasion.

I managed to bring her back safely, but that incident made me decide to return to Davao City with my kids.

At the time, there were widespread rumors about children being kidnapped by people in white vans, allegedly abducting them for their organs. These stories, though unverified, spread fear among parents like me.

By 2009, I decided to try my luck abroad, leaving my children in the care of my sister. She was also the primary caregiver for our mother, who was battling Stage 4 lung cancer.

During my nearly 13 years of working overseas, I found immense peace of mind knowing my children were safe in Davao City under the leadership of the Dutertes.

I have full trust in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s ability to take care of his constituents.

What I feel is not blind loyalty but deep respect for how he has made Davao a safe haven.