Strength in Every Step

In a heartfelt effort to empower mothers, parents, and caregivers of all backgrounds, the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU) Ugnayan ng Pahinungód successfully hosted a webinar titled “MotherTalk: Kaalaman at Kwentuhan” on 07 June 2025 via Zoom Video Conferencing Platform. This is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (UN SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-Being. The webinar was hosted by the Online Mother’s Class (OMC) volunteers: Ms. Mariel Precious Joy C. Gardose, Ms. Ravina Cap Atan Wahid, and Ms. Arlene B. Mendiola-Acol. 

One of the speakers of the webinar is Dr. Queenie Roxas-Ridulme, an Assistant Professor in UPOU and seasoned volunteer advocate. She facilitated the Kaalaman segment of the webinar, which addressed some of the most frequently asked questions from participants of the Online Mother’s Class—a free, public service initiative offered by Ugnayan ng Pahinungód. Her session clarified key concerns on maternal and newborn health, empowering attendees with accessible, evidence-based knowledge on taking mothers during pregnancy, family planning and taking care of newborn babies.

Stories that Heal: The Stories of Mother Volunteers

Another key feature of the webinar was the Kwentuhan segment,  which highlighted the voices of mothers who courageously shared their lived experiences. This segment was led by Mommy Ma. Adelfa F. Gomez, Mommy Erica Ailyne O. Cabesuela, Mommy Genevieve S. Aguinaldo, and Mommy Ma. Kristela C. Lopez.  They spoke not only of the medical realities they faced, complications during childbirth, breastfeeding challenges, and the weight of postpartum recovery, but also of their emotional and physical journeys. Their kwento (story)  turned into kwentuhan (shared dialogue), and the discussion turned into a safe space for every mother, father, and caregiver to discuss their experiences and ask questions.

The Mothers who shared their raw and heartfelt testimonies gave voice to truths that are often silenced especially in a society where maternal pain is expected to be endured in silence. Their testimonies underscored a crucial message: maternal struggles should never be hidden or carried alone. In voicing their pain, our mother volunteers offered strength and solidarity—reminding us that healing begins in being heard.

Reaching Across the Nation 

One of the event’s highlights was its nationwide reach, showing how UPOU Ugnayan ng Pahinungód’s commitment to service and advocacy transcends distance and geography. The Webinar was attended by 153 Participants from across the Philippines, including Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and some from Canada and Italy.

The Ugnayan ng Pahinungód Spirit

MotherTalk 2025 is one of many initiatives of UPOU Ugnayan ng Pahinungód, the volunteer service arm, aimed at extending psychosocial and educational support to diverse Filipino communities. True to its mission, the webinar fostered not just learning but solidarity, proving once again that knowledge, when shared with empathy, can heal.

As with all Pahinungód efforts, the event was powered by volunteers who brought not only their expertise but also their empathy. Their dedication exemplifies the core values of the program: to serve with communities, to foster dialogue, and to uplift voices that often go unheard. It was a true embodiment of the Pahinungód spirit—Makibahagi. Maglingkod. Mag Pahinungód.—an enduring call to take part, to serve, and to give oneself in the spirit of volunteerism.

To watch the full webinar video, please visit this link: https://youtu.be/pRa9RwC57cM.

Written by: Staya Veda Villan and Jessica Hernandez ♦ Edited by: Larry N. Cruz