Today’s dads are carving out their own unique brand of fatherhood. Unlike previous generations, they are more hands-on, taking an active role in parenting and raising their kids. These modern fathers are willing to change diapers, wash bums, dress up, and play around with their children, showing that fatherhood is about more than just meeting their family’s needs. It’s about the unwavering support and dedication that dads provide–a commitment woven with love, sacrifice, and resilience.
This year’s finalists in the Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 Photo Contest, under the category Dedication, showcase the profound devotion of fathers as they navigate the joys and challenges of raising their children. From the quiet moments of reading stories to lessons of perseverance and hard work, each entry captures unique fatherhood moments, portraying the strength, tenderness, and steadfast support that fathers offer.
Among 5,000 entries from across the Philippines, these are the finalists for the Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 Photo Contest in the ‘Dedication’ category. Take a look at the heartwarming stories and descriptions behind the finalist entries that embody dedication, highlighting the ways fathers nurture and love their families.
Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 Photo Contest Finalists: Dedication
"A Father Provides"
By Myra Escoro-Dalumpines
Featuring Carnille Caesar S. Dalumpines
"This heartwarming scene of my husband and son was captured during our weekend commute after a family day in the city. While society often expects men to provide financially, it’s equally crucial for them to be present in their children’s lives. Despite the demands of a full day’s work, my husband makes time on precious rest days to shape our child’s formative years through intentional presence."
"A Father’s Love"
By Jennifer Bayanay
Featuring Marvin Bayanay
"This photo was taken when my baby was in the hospital, and my husband, worried he might never see him again, rushed home from abroad. Despite his unfinished contract, his desire to be with his child at that crucial moment gave me hope as a mother that our child would get better. Having him as the father of my children is a great blessing from above. I have suffered from postpartum depression since my third child was born, and I desperately needed someone to share the burden of caring for our kids. God answered my prayer by sending my husband back to us."
"A Father’s Love"
By Princess Laura Alvero
Featuring Norene N. Tampus
"Ever since our baby was born, my partner worked far from us, making long, uncertain motorcycle trips. He would only come home during the weekends. His safe return is a huge relief and blessing. Whenever he arrives, he hugs our babies with immense comfort and joy. He bonds with them, trying to make up for lost time. I love capturing these moments together. His boundless love for us allows him to conquer the every day struggle of providing for our family. And I can’t help but be proud of all that he does for our little family."
"Batya"
By Katrina Mae Mijares
Featuring Emil Z. Mijares III and Katrina Mae B. Mijares
"The timeless tradition of swimming in a batya symbolizes the memorable connection between father and daughter. This captured moment is a cherished memory we can show our children as they grow up."
"Dad Before Service"
By Angela Garen
Featuring AM Emanuele Garen
"I submitted raw and candid photos of my daughter and her father bonding the day before he left for military service. These images capture him cherishing every minute with his child, knowing they don’t know when they’ll meet again.
I want him to know that one day our children will understand the essence and sacrifice of your service, but for now, they only see the man they love fighting to be present in their lives even if he may be physically absent. I can see your efforts to remain present in their lives in every way you can.”
"Father and Daughter’s Bond"
By Jerome Batain
Featuring Jeffie Tuyan
"One of the most common ways for fathers to bond with their daughters is by tying their hair. This simple act of love and care not only demonstrates a father's willingness to help his daughter with her grooming routine, but also shows his affection and dedication to her well-being. By taking the time to learn how to do different hairstyles for his daughter, a father can create a sense of trust and security in their relationship."
"Girl Apo"
By Rhapsody Key Montaño Bermejo
Featuring Freddie Bermejo
"After I told my father that we were expecting his grandchild, his first response was, 'I pray that He would give me a girl apo.' As the only girl in the family, my father adores me so much. Though he loves me and my siblings equally, we created a unique bond as father-daughter. So when I asked him why he wanted a granddaughter, he said that he misses the time when he would just carry me in his arms while I pretended to be asleep. God answered his prayer and gave him a granddaughter."
"Harvesting Bonds"
By Mary Jane Redoble
Featuring Ronjon G. Redoble
"The photograph speaks volumes about fatherhood as a journey of guidance and boundless love. As the father works tirelessly to provide, his son not only bears witness to his hard work but actively participates, learning invaluable lessons about diligence and perseverance. The shared experience of harvesting corn symbolizes the passing of knowledge and strength, nurturing a bond that transcends generations."
"Reading Time"
By Dulce Veloso
Featuring Emil Veloso
"This entry captures the daily routine of a father and son reading together, highlighting the importance of quality time in nurturing a child’s growth."
"Stand Up And Be Proud"
By Maria Elena E. Bundalian
Featuring Terence Bundalian
"My son Inigo, born with Cerebral Palsy, requires special care and equipment to function, including eating, sitting, and standing. Inigo needs a stander to keep him upright during his therapy sessions. This little boy struggles to stand, but we are his voice, hands, and every day. Inigo’s strength is remarkable, and so is our love and devotion to him."
"You’ll Be Okay, Papa Is Here"
By Dina Pagdilao
Featuring Sam Pagdilao
"During a health emergency, our baby was rushed to the ER with asthma and pneumonia, crying hysterically. My husband was the only one able to calm him, a moment I captured in this photo, appreciating the solace he provided and realizing how fortunate my children are to have such an amazing, loving father."
Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 Photo Contest Winners: Dedication
"Fatherhood Bliss"
By Richard Cabico
Featuring Richard Cabico
"I knew being a mother was hard, but becoming a stay-at-home dad was a tougher gig than expected. When my wife left for work in Dubai, our youngest child was just one month old. Caring for two boys, now aged 11 months old and six years old, was overwhelming, often leading to depression and loneliness. Yet over time, I found my greatest joy in raising them to be respectful, God-fearing, responsible, and loving individuals–the greatest achievement any father could ever hope to accomplish."
"Hindi Mapapagod"
By Paulee Mari Dagandan
Featuring John Patrick Balanay
"Siya na lagi pa rin kaming inaalalayan. Siya na lagi pa rin kaming inaasikaso kahit pagod na rin siya sa trabaho."
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Photos are arranged in alphabetical order.
See the other winning photos under the following categories: Love and Joy.
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Produced by: Bettina Santos
Edited by Ronna Capili Bonifacio
Video Producer: Cherrie Julian
Social Media: Zen Arganda
Art Director: Maria Stephanie Ocampo
Video Editor: Olan Pingco
Marketing Specialist: Marie Bilgera
Publisher: Iza Santos-Cuyos
Interns: Yuuki dela Cruz, Justine Cruz, Angel Jose, Tricia Mae Borromeo
