DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, September 27 (PIA) -- The academe and religious sectors here cited the importance of strong Filipino family relationships and values in a Kapihan sa PIA forum on September 26, 2023 in Dumaguete City.

The forum is one of the highlights in this year’s celebration of the 31st National Filipino Family Week of the Dumaguete City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) with the theme “Pamilyang Pilipino: Pagtugon sa Nagbabagong Pananaw at Panahon.”

Jorge Aquino Alit II of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (CJC-LDS) cited the importance of having strong Filipino values such as close family ties, respect, religiosity, and affection for the elderly.

Filipino values are inherently positive, but they are quickly changing because of the influence of social media and the changing priorities of families, said Alit.

“A strong marriage leads to family happiness. Giving more time to each other is an expression of love to our families and constant communication,” he added.

The schools are expected to complement the family or home in inculcating or molding values through good manners and right conduct.

Education Superintendent Dr. Casiana Caberte and Dr. Judith Mapue of the Dumaguete Schools Division under the Department of Education also shared that parental figure is critical in the development of children’s values in the family, however, “it takes a village to raise a child" and the community must also be present to help them grow in a safe and healthy environment.

Guidance Counselor Head of St. Louise School of Don Bosco, Maria Irmina Vendiola, said that values are formed at an early age and the involvement of parents is important.

“As an educator or teacher, it is a challenging role especially since we don’t only deal with students but with parents as well. We have to do our prime duty to educate our children so that we can rally from functioning a healthy, confident, and God-loving individuals,” Vendiola said.

As part of the Family Week  celebration, the city government of Dumaguete has lined up a series of activities which included the Kapihan sa PIA forum, poster making contest, medical clinic and bloodletting, family fun run, health dancing, among others. (JCT/PIA7 Negros Oriental)