QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as the lead agency of the National Committee on the Filipino Family (NCFF), is encouraging all Filipino families to participate in "Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day" on Monday, a significant event within the 31st National Family Week celebration scheduled from September 25 to 29.
"The DSWD encourages all Filipino families to allocate time to bond with their loved ones. This simple act of sharing meals together strengthens communication and fosters strong relationships. It is an invaluable activity that fortifies families, making them resilient in the face of life's challenges,” DSWD spokesperson Romel Lopez said.
This year, Valenzuela City will host the National Family Week celebration, offering a variety of family day festivities in the city's child development institutions.
Aligned with Presidential Proclamation 326, Series of 2012, "Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day" encourages Filipinos to share mealtime with their loved ones. This heartwarming tradition takes place every fourth Monday of September, coinciding with the annual observance of National Family Week.
In support of this event, the Office of the President issued Memorandum Circular (MC) 32, announcing the suspension of work in government offices under the Executive Branch starting at 3 p.m. on Monday, September 25.
The circular also encourages all government workers in the Executive Branch to actively participate in the programs and activities organized by the National Committee on the Filipino Family in honor of Family Week.
Moreover, as part of the week-long celebration, the DSWD will proudly host the National Awarding for the "Natatanging Pamilyang Pilipino" (NPP) on September 29.
The NPP aims to recognize extraordinary Filipino families that have made substantial contributions to nation-building and the development of the family as the cornerstone of Philippine society. Additionally, it seeks to nurture a pool of ambassadors who champion Filipino values.
Amid a world filled with bustling routines and digital distractions, "Kainang Pamilya Mahalaga Day" serves as a steady reminder of the enduring importance of family bonds and shared moments of togetherness.
History of National Family Week
In 1992, the Philippines witnessed a heartwarming moment in its history when then President Fidel V. Ramos took a significant step to underscore the importance of family. With the stroke of a pen, he signed into law Proclamation No. 60, designating the last week of September each year as Family Week.
Following this, he further strengthened the bonds of kinship by declaring the fourth Sunday of September as Family Thanksgiving, through Proclamation No. 847. These proclamations were not just symbolic gestures; they were a testament to President Ramos' deep understanding of the family as the cornerstone of society.
The Essence of the Filipino Family
Family, the basic unit of society, holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos. President Ramos envisioned a society where familial bonds would be nurtured and celebrated. It was a vision that went beyond mere words; it was a call to action for various authorities in the country to encourage citizens to utilize this dedicated week to foster stronger familial relationships and reconnect with loved ones.
The Magic of Family Meals
One tradition that has stood the test of time and holds a special place within the heart of Filipino families is the gathering around the dining table for a hearty meal. The act of sharing a meal transcends the physical nourishment it provides; it creates lasting memories and strengthens familial ties.
In recent times, a well-known noodle soup company coined the term "FaMealy" to remind us of the significance of family meals. This term encapsulates the idea that family meals are more than just food; they are a time for laughter, conversation, and togetherness.
The DSWD invites everyone to embrace this cherished tradition and celebrate the essence of family during National Family Week. (PIA-NCR)
