By Manila Bulletin
Published Sep 22, 2025 12:05 am
Today the Filipino nation begins the observance of Family Week. Malacañang has shortened the work hours in state offices and departments today to allow government employees to participate in the annual observance of the 33rd Family Week and the Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day.
In accordance with the mandate of the 1987 Constitution which “declares that the State shall recognize the sanctity of family life and shall protect and strengthen the family as the basic social unit,” Presidential Proclamation No. 60 was issued in 1992.
In 2012, this was amended by Proclamation No. 326 which affirmed the importance of “the common family meal where all members of the family are present to signify their unity and thanksgiving for God’s abundant blessings.” Moreover, it emphasized that “having a common family meal encourages parents to stay connected with their children and understand the challenges they face.” Hence, it recognized the “need to highlight and celebrate the value of families sharing meals together as a national tradition that should be observed annually and sustained by all Filipino families.”
Indeed, this is not a mere cultural affirmation; it is a policy imperative. When families thrive, communities prosper. When they are fractured or broken, society bears the cost.
The simple act of eating together as a family takes on urgent meaning in today’s Philippines. Rising food prices have strained household budgets, forcing many families to reduce meals or substitute cheaper but less nutritious fare. Millions of children face hunger or malnutrition, undermining their physical and cognitive development. Add to this the long working hours, worsening traffic, and relentless pull of digital devices and it becomes apparent that the family meal is increasingly at the risk of extinction.
Public policy must be strengthened comprehensively to produce long-lasting effects. First, government must further strengthen food security and nutrition programs. Initiatives, such as the expanded school-used feeding program, rice subsidy, and targeted cash transfers must be sustained and expanded so that these may reach the most vulnerable families that belong to the bottom of the pyramid.
Second, workplaces should be encouraged to adopt family-friendly policies. Beyond the specific observance this week, employers can set aside once-a-week family meal hours, allowing workers to leave work early enough to share dinner at home. This may be achieved through flexible work arrangements and similar programs that promote enhance work-life balance.
Third, schools and local governments must integrate the spirit of Family Week into the fabric of community life. Concrete measures could include promoting device-free meals, motivating students to initiate family meals, or holding barangay-level Family Day gatherings.
Digital platforms and telecoms companies can push content for entertainment and conduct nationwide campaigns urging Filipino families to “disconnect to reconnect” during mealtime and get-together opportunities.
Ultimately, Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga is not about a nostalgic return to old traditions but a pragmatic response to several challenges that cut across health, education and social development.
As we mark Family Week, let us reaffirm our commitment to strengthen Filipino families. A nation that ensures families can eat together strengthens the moorings of a well-nourished and resilient citizenry.
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