In 2017, a study revealed that modern fathers are more involved than previous generations. Millennial and Gen Z dads spend three times more time with their children more than men did two generations ago. In 1982, 43% of fathers admitted they never changed a single diaper.
Today’s dads are reshaping fatherhood and redefining a father’s love. They are no longer confined to being just providers and disciplinarians. They change diapers, cook, do laundry, play with their kids, and express their love openly.
These actions no longer diminish their “masculinity”; instead, they illustrate a father’s love–a love that runs deep and silent, yet always strong and steady.
This Father’s Day, we spotlight the often untold love of a father. From 5,000 entries across the Philippines, here are the finalists of Smart Parenting’s Parenthood 100 Photo Contest. These photos reveal the untold stories of fatherly love, from showing affection despite physical distance and responsibilities, to being present and engaged in their children’s lives. Here are the finalists in the love category.
Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 Photo Contest Finalists: Love
“Ang Harana Kay Bunso"
By Dominador Asis, Jr.
Featuring Dominador Asis, Jr.
"My photo describes how a father wants to communicate with his little son through music, with the child enjoying the sounds he hears. I am proud to be a father who takes care of his family with all of his heart."
“A Father’s Sacrifice: Test of Love and Character”
By Samantha Perez
Featuring Dennis Boc, Jr.
"Dennis, my husband, had gone through a rollercoaster of emotions in 2023. He truly deserves to enjoy his role as both a father and a husband.
During my delicate pregnancy in 2023, Dennis became my primary caregiver. We almost lost our baby, and I had to be on bed rest for months, receive multiple injections, and endure confinement due to premature labor. I changed from the active woman he knew into someone who needed constant care. Dennis’ unwavering support and sacrifices during this time showed his deep commitment to our family.
Coming from a Chinese household, Dennis also had to navigate issues of acceptance. He fought for our relationship and our growing family while caring for me. In the third month of my pregnancy, we received devastating news that his father had liver cancer. This was a significant blow to Dennis, making the future feel uncertain.
Dennis couldn’t fully share his fatherhood journey with his father because his responsibilities kept him anchored here in the Philippines. However, his memories with his father provided guidance and support as he embraced fatherhood. Dennis still tries to share the joys of fatherhood with his father by regularly sending photos and videos of our son.
Now that our baby is six months old, Dennis’ sacrifices have been worth it. He deserves the joy he is experiencing now. He’s happy that I recovered from my pregnancy, and we are accepted by his side of the family. We are planning to visit them and his father soon. With hope in our hearts, we look forward to his father seeing and holding his grandson.
A father's pain and sacrifices extend over the years. He consistently supports and protects his family, always keeping them in his mind and heart. It is truly a blessing when a father can be present for his family. Yet, a father also needs support, guidance, and warmth. Dennis deserves to enjoy his fatherhood now. He is no longer just my caregiver; he is my husband and the father of our baby, while still the dutiful son caring for his ailing father. Dennis is a man of action. HE embodies the essence of a true father.
“Best Friends at First Sight”
By Lyan Iris Escolano
Featuring Mark Joseph Escolano
"People often told me when I got pregnant that 'You’ll forget about your dog when you have kids.' Nope, we will never ever forget Chandler, our dog. Chandler was our first child and he’s very much part of our family. Our baby and Chandler bonded from day one, showcasing that fatherhood and motherhood come in many forms."
“Capture the Moment”
By Araceli Gloria-Francisco
Featuring Jan Kenneth Francisco
"A candid shot capturing the essence of fatherhood through the eyes of the photographer."
“Capturing the Essence of Fatherhood”
By Alden Trilles
Featuring Alden Trilles
"In quiet moments, amidst the toil and strife, the essence of a hardworking father is immortalized, reflecting his sacrifice, determination, and unwavering dedication to his family’s future."
“Daddy’s Sleeping”
By Nadine Faye Sorrera
Featuring Jeffrey Sorrera
"'Sshhh! Daddy’s sleeping!' Other times, it’s 'Is Daddy sleeping?' Whether a statement or a question, this photo captures a child’s respect and longing for their father."
“Daily Baby Bath”
By Hazel Logarta Ojeda
Featuring Vingie Ojeda
"We make it a point to ensure that my husband shares equally in the responsibilities for our children. From the birth of our eldest son to our newborn, he has been the one to take exceptional care of us, especially our newborn, right from the delivery room. When I was weak, tired, and exhausted after giving birth, and without help from other family members, he took on the primary role of caring for our newborn. Every morning, it is his duty to take our son outside for a bit of sunshine, handle diaper changes, and give him baths. From our eldest to our newborn, he is a very hands-on father.
I am incredibly proud whenever someone asks if there are men who prioritize family with such dedication, because I am fortunate to be married to one. Walang barkada, walang bisyo, he has a daily routine ng pagpapaligo sa mga bata, pagpapakain, pagluluto para sa amin. He works from home, and I enjoy every moment with him, feeling incredibly lucky to be such a pampered wife."
“Days Old of Fatherhood”
By Johanna Suyat
Featuring Matthew Suyat
"Fatherhood often takes a backseat to motherhood, but fathers also provide essential care and emotional support. I am grateful for my husband, who makes my motherhood journey enjoyable by being a loving and supportive father."
“First Father-Son Hug”
By Allan Arellano
Featuring Allan Arellano
"A heartfelt moment full of emotion, capturing a beautiful gift of a rainbow before our 10th wedding anniversary. This photo speaks volumes and still brings tears to my eyes."
“First Time Meet”
By Lady Jean Llamasares
Featuring Jonas Llamasares
"This photo represents the sacrifices of a seafarer father and his first meeting with his child."
“Grandpa’s Love”
By Jane Parec
Featuring Efren Mangoma
"Tatang Efren is a farmer, father, and grandfather all rolled into one. Although he didn’t have the luxury of regular bonding time with us when we were younger due to the burdens of raising six children, he always ensured we had happy moments even amidst farm work. He taught us to appreciate simple things and work hard for our goals. Now, he passes on these lessons to our kids. At 63, he remains a strong lolo who supports his grandchildren's hobbies and interests. Truly, a grandparent's love is unique and extraordinary."
“I Will Always Make Time Even From Afar”
By Emeliza Ruck
Featuring Thomas Ruck
"One of my husband’s commitments to me is that I will never feel alone, despite him being employed overseas. He makes every effort to stay involved in our child's life as much as possible. While he may not be physically present, as a new mother, I am incredibly grateful for his emotional support and encouragement. A devoted husband and father is truly one of God’s greatest blessings."
“It’s Not Sacrifice, It’s Love”
By Melissa Robles Dela Cruz
Featuring Rommel Alcoriza Bautista
"Parents are willing to do anything for their children, not out of sacrifice, but out of unconditional love."
“Love of a Father”
By Daisy Lyn Badiola
Featuring Alvin Badiola
"Parenthood isn't just about providing material things; it's about giving a child all the love they deserve. Nothing compares to a dad's love."
“Magkarugtong na Buhay”
By Mary Sol Benito
Featuring Kenneth Cabrera +
"Remembering my fiancé’s 40th birthday. Although our daughter never met her father, she loves him deeply. I was about 3–4 months pregnant when he died. To help her get to know him, I share stories about him from time to time."
“Papa’s Share of Sleepless Nights”
By Venus Keizyl Arizala Gagahina
Featuring Bryan Mallare Gagahina
"Sleepless and long nights come with postpartum. A dad who willingly does the burping of their newborn after breastfeeding in the middle of the night is a tremendous help to a mom."
“The Sacrifice of a Provider”
By Carmina Dacuya
Featuring Arsenio Dacuya, Jr.
"Fatherhood involves responsibilities, such as supporting the family. It is difficult for a parent to leave for work when faced with kids crying and wanting to stop you from going. The picture shows Arcie heading to work one morning, with his children watching and crying, trying to stop him from leaving or wanting to go with him."
Smart Parenting Parenthood 100 Photo Contest Winners: Love
“Brotherhood to Fatherhood”
By Aissa Briones
Featuring Ronald Briones, RJ Briones, Rainan Briones
"This photo, taken in the ancestral home, captures a rare gathering of three brothers with their sons, emphasizing the preciousness of such moments and their active involvement as fathers."
“Little Feet With A Big Heart”
By Danilyn Joy Cabello
Featuring Kirkamon Cabello
"My husband and son love to tickle, play, and be silly while lying in bed. This is one of the many cute moments I captured, with those little feet we hope will grow into a responsible, kind person with a loving heart."
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Photos are arranged in alphabetical order.
See the other winning photos under the following categories: Dedication and Joy.
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Produced by: Bettina Santos
Edited by Ronna Capili Bonifacio and Em Cruz
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 Ann Borromeo
