May 15 is National Day of Families
Davao City (7 May) -- Fathers play a vital role in the family. They are mothers' equal partners in raising a happy and healthy family.
The significant role of fathers is the focus of this year as the National Committee on the Filipino Family (NCFF) chaired by the social welfare department joins the worldwide observance of the International Day of Families on May 15.
DSWD assistant secretary for operations Parisya Hashim-Taradji said the theme for this year is "Fathers and Families: Responsibilities and Challenges," which anchors on the belief that fathers are esential part of a family's life, and that emerging challenges facing them and their families should not change this.
Activities to be conducted nationwide include Parade of 200 Fathers, Focused Group Discussion, Short Program highlighting testimonies from a widower, a solo parent or single father, a husband of an overseas Filipino worker, or a father advocate of violence against women, Hashim-Taradji said.
Output of the Focused Group Discussion will serve as reference to the ERPAT Training or Empowerment and Reaffirmation of Paternal Abilities Training to be conducted in Manila and Davao City, Hashim-Taradji added.
According to DSWD XI focal person on family Cynthia Umbana, ERPAT was developed to respond to the familial concerns and issues of today's Filipino fathers. She said it aims to enhance and strengthen parenting capabilities of Filipino fathers in performing their familial tasks and responsibilities, help them achieve an active and equal role with their spouses in fostering the optimal development of their children and other family members, and take active leadership in the community in promoting positive family life. (DSWD-degsduron/PIA XI) [top]
