Manila—This Father’s Day, the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) joins Filipino families across the country in honoring fathers for their invaluable contributions in nurturing, protecting, and guiding their families.
For generations, fathers have been regarded as the “haligi ng tahanan”—the pillar of the family whose hard work and sacrifices help provide stability and security for their loved ones. As Filipino families continue to navigate changing social, economic, and demographic realities, CPD recognizes that the role of fathers has evolved beyond being providers to becoming active partners in building healthy, resilient, and future-ready families.
"Fatherhood today encompasses many roles," said CPD Executive Director Usec. Lisa Grace S. Bersales. "Fathers are not only providers but also caregivers, mentors, role models, and partners in making decisions that shape the future of their families. This Father's Day, we celebrate Filipino fathers who continue to embrace these responsibilities with dedication and love."
Recent demographic trends indicate that Filipino families are becoming smaller and increasingly focused on ensuring better opportunities and quality of life for their children. As parents strive to provide quality education, good health, and a secure future for their families, fathers play an increasingly important role in helping create environments where children can thrive and reach their full potential.
According to the CPD, one important aspect of modern fatherhood is responsible parenthood—working together with one's partner to make informed decisions that promote the health and well-being of the entire family.
"Strong families are built through partnership and shared responsibility," Bersales emphasized. "When fathers actively participate in decisions concerning their family's health, welfare, and future, they help create a stronger foundation for their children and contribute to healthier and more resilient communities."
The commission likewise highlighted the important role of fathers in promoting responsible parenthood and family planning. Family planning enables couples to achieve their desired family size, properly space pregnancies, and make informed choices that support the health of mothers and children. Through shared decision-making, fathers can help ensure that families are better prepared to invest in the nutrition, education, and development of their children.
Data from the 2025 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) show continued progress in the use of modern family planning methods among Filipino couples. At the same time, CPD sees opportunities to further strengthen men's participation as supportive partners in reproductive health and responsible parenthood, recognizing that family well-being is a shared responsibility between mothers and fathers.
To support greater male engagement, CPD continues to promote “KATROPA” (Kalalakihang Tapat sa Responsibilidad at Obligasyon sa Pamilya), a flagship initiative that encourages men to become responsible fathers, supportive partners, and advocates of family well-being in their communities. Through KATROPA, men are provided opportunities to learn about responsible parenthood, family life, reproductive health, and positive fatherhood.
Low but increasing men’s involvement in family planning. A quiet shift may be taking place among Filipino fathers. Despite persistently low levels of male participation in family planning, Department of Health (DOH) data show that more men are taking a proactive role in reproductive health decisions. New acceptors of No-Scalpel Vasectomy increased by 52.84 percent from 2023 to 2024, while new condom acceptors grew by 9.61 percent. For CPD, these figures suggest that more fathers are recognizing that building a strong family is not only about earning a living, but also about sharing responsibility for its future.
"As we celebrate Father's Day, let us recognize that fathers contribute far more than financial support. They help shape values, strengthen family relationships, and create opportunities for their children's future," Bersales said.
"One of the greatest gifts a father can give his family is his presence, involvement, and commitment to shared responsibility. By working alongside mothers in nurturing and planning for their families, fathers help build healthier, stronger, and more resilient Filipino families."
This Father's Day, CPD honors fathers across the country and reaffirms its commitment to promoting responsible parenthood, family well-being, and the Philippine vision of a “Planado, Matatag, at Maginhawang Pamilyang Pilipino”.
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