Mayor extolls role of parents as leaders in their homes, communities

“Ang pagiging magulang ay hindi lang tungkol sa pagpapalaki ng anak. Ito ay tungkol sa paghubog ng kinabukasan. Every parent is a leader. In our homes, we shape values, build character, and inspire dreams.”

Thus, declared Mayor Benjamin Magalong during the Capability Building of Parent Leaders (Batch 1), Nov. 4, at the Plaza Garden Residences, here, conducted by the Department of Education-Schools Division of Baguio participated by Parents-Teachers-Community-Association presidents of public and private schools in the Summer Capital. “Parenting is the first school of leadership,” the Mayor stressed.

The two-day (Nov. 4 and 5) leadership empowerment program aimed to strengthen the role of parents not only as caregivers but also as the first and most influential leaders in their homes and communities.

He said that true leadership begins at home because when parents listen, they teach empathy; when they set boundaries, they teach discipline; and when they admit mistakes, they teach humility.

The Mayor encouraged participants to embrace parent leadership through empowerment, confidence, and community support.

He said that parents should be given the tools to understand and guide their children with compassion; strengthen belief in themselves as their children’s first teachers; foster communities that grow and learn together; and inspire homes that contribute to a better society.

“Ang magulang ay bayani not because they are perfect, but because they choose to lead with love. Sa bawat tahanan na may lider na magulang, may pag-asa ang bayan,” the Mayor said.

He added that when parents lead with love, wisdom, and courage, “they not only nurture better children but also build a stronger, more compassionate, and values-driven nation.” – Eunice Tomacder and Gaby Keith