Who says that navigating through motherhood would be impossible without a co-pilot? These empowered single moms would prove otherwise. And while the wind throws them with doubled exhaustion and hard work, being on a solo flight also means double the joy and love.
Jodi Sta. Maria
Jodi Sta. Maria has many times proved that she is an epitome of excellence – from being an actress, student, and mom to Thirdy. Known for her inspiring words of wisdom, Jodi says the ingredients to a peaceful life only take gratitude, humility, ability to express love, and faith in oneself and the Lord. And while she singlehandedly tends to her son, the beautiful woman underscores the importance of self-care and pursuing her personal dreams. “Ang pinaka-importanteng role sa buhay ko is being a mother pero siyempre hindi ko rin nakakalimutan na I am also and an individual. Mayroon din akong mga bagay na gustong gawin at matupad not only for myself but for the greater good.” After finishing her degree in BS Psychology, Jodi is planning to advocate on mental health campaigns by putting up a small accessible clinic.
WATCH: Jodi still makes time for Thirdy
As Thirdy enters adolescence, Jodi gives her binata the freedom to explore while guiding him every step of the way.
Sunshine Cruz
The attachment between a mother and her child is unbreakable that they become reflection of one another. “Hindi ko binitiwan ang mga anak ko kahit napakahirap sa akin ng adjustment kaya ang sarap sa pakiramdam na nakikita ko ngayon ang mga anak ko excelling in school, mababait, masunurin at marespeto.”
WATCH: Sunshine Cruz as a single mom
Sunshine also highlights the importance of open communication between a mom and her children. “Minors sila so may karapatan akong makialam pero kahit naman hindi ko sabihin ‘yun, ina-allow naman nila akong makialam kasi very open ang relationship namin and I thank the Lord for that.”
Nathalie Hart
For Nathalie Hart, being a mom to her baby daughter is more fulfilling than meeting a new partner. “No, thank you. I don’t need anyone. Itutulog ko na lang ‘yan mas masaya pa buhay ko,” her hilarious response when asked about the possibility of falling in love again. Nonetheless, Nathalie and her ex-partner remain friends at the moment.
WATCH: Nathalie Hart talks about her life as a first time mom
A mom always makes things possible whatever situation she’s in, proven by Nathalie who managed to move from two countries with Baby Penelope without a nanny and while exclusively breastfeeding.
Ruffa Gutierrez
Raising two teenage girls, Ruffa Gutierrez’s parenting style has the right balance of being strict and lenient. And while her life as a solo working mom is challenging, Ruffa finds maternal love as the perfect motivation to strive.
WATCH: Ruffa shares her experience on being a single mom
Vina Morales
Having her own village is vital for a single mom especially when the going gets tough. Momshie Vina Morales is grateful for friends who offer support, advice, and company. “Importante ‘yun especially when we’re down o kailangan natin ng kausap. Natututo ako sa kanila na ang tatapang nila so kailangan ako rin. Kung nakayanan nila, kaya ko rin.”
WATCH: Vina, priority ang kanyang pamilya at anak
K Brosas
Reminding us that moms lead by example, K Brosas raised a strong and independent daughter by modelling these traits in her own behaviour.
WATCH: K Brosas, ikinuwento kung gaano ka-independent ang kanyang anak
Cristine Reyes
Disciplining and scolding a child is inevitable but do it in a private area, as how Cristine Reyes’ hilarious anecdote went. “Umiyak nang umiyak sa restaurant so kailangan ko siya dalhin sa restroom para mapandilatan ko siya. Paglabas namin, alam mo ‘yung mukha niya parang aping-api.”
WATCH: Cristine, may kwento tungkol sa minsang napagalitan niya si Amarah
Donita Rose
Seize the fleeting childhood days and cuddle with your babies as much as you can. Based on Donita Rose’s experience, adolescence made her son quite conscious with expressing affection. Nonetheless, this stage is prime for teaching responsibility; moms can start with imposing rules on schedule and time.
WATCH: Donita, ikinuwento kung paano niya asikasuhin ang kanyang anak
Wilma Doesnt
Aware of the negative impact of social media, Wilma Doesn’t strictly imposes a no-wifi rule at home. She teaches her kids to prioritize personal interaction and the fun life offline. Thus, instead of having conversations in the chatroom, Wilma invites her children’s peers to come over their house.
WATCH: Wilma: “You don’t mess with my children”
Known for being a tough woman, Wilma will dauntlessly fight for her children especially when they are hurt and disrespected. “You don’t mess with my children,” warns Wilma who jestingly admits to being ‘sugadera’ when needed.
Candy Pangilinan
While seeing your kids get wounded or sick creates a sting, Candy Pangilinan asserts to brush off the guilt. “Kailangan niyang pagdaanan ‘yun para next time, mag-ingat siya. Hindi ako nagu-guilty because I want him to learn.”
WATCH: Ang nakakaiyak na mensahe ni Candy para sa kanyang anak
Candy calls son Quintin her ticket to heaven, the angel that molded her into a better individual. With tears in her eyes, she told him, “I still pray every day that you will be God’s miracle and testimony.”
Meryll Soriano
While gadget usage and exploration outside home is inevitable for teenagers, Meryll Soriano makes sure that son Elijah knows his limits. She only grants him permission to play online/mobile games on the weekends.
WATCH: Meryll, sinabi ang mga challenges na hinarap bilang isang magulang
Motherhood does not come with a manual but thanks to the advancement of knowledge and technology, Meryll can easily do her research, especially about the nitty-gritty of raising a teenage boy. And in this age of digital media, Meryll believes that it is just right to be more involved in her son’s life. “Naniniwala ako na this is our world now. Kailangan niyang maksabay kung anong mayroon sa mundo. Kailangan lang ng guidance, pagfifilter, at sa pagbibigay ng tamang time.”
Janice de Belen
With grace and positivity, Janice de Belen was able to survive when life surprised her with motherhood. “Magaling lang siguro ako tumanggap ng pagbabago sa buhay and you have no choice but to accept the change.”
WATCH: Janice de Belen on being a mom
Eula Valdez
Driven is Eula Valdez’s most distinct characteristic as a mother, according to her son Miguel. And if not for this trait, she wouldn’t be able to pursue her childhood dream of becoming an actress.
WATCH: Miguel describes Eula as a mom
Being a mom is hard and challenging, moreso going through it singlehandedly. But these celebrity moms are doing excellent jobs raising brilliant humans, showing us that alone doesn’t mean lonely and impossible.