‘Sipag’ and ‘tiyaga’ that shaped generations of fathers

‘Sipag’ and ‘tiyaga’ that shaped generations of fathers | Daily Tribune

DADS from different professions show up in creative costumes for the dance competition, adding color and personality to the celebration.
PHOTOGRAPH by Patricia Ramirez for DAILY TRIBUNE

In the times we doubt ourselves, when we stumble and lose our footing, there are strong hands ready to lift us back up. These are hands that know work, sometimes aching, tired, yet never withdrawn from the ones who give them purpose. These are the hands of our fathers, our tatays.

On 21 June, families came together to celebrate them not just in words, but in shared moments. In Las Piñas, families gathered for the Fun Run for Tatay organized by the Villar Foundation, an event that invited fathers and their loved ones to move, laugh and reconnect. Now on its third year since beginning in 2024, the gathering drew around 4,000 runners who arrived as early as 5 a.m. at the Villar Children’s Farm. Many came prepared, while others joined on impulse, drawn by the chance to spend time with family in a meaningful way.

KIDS join their fathers on the dance floor, sharing laughter and rhythm in a joyful moment of bonding.

The morning came together in three parts. It began with a 2-km fun run that brought together participants of all ages.

This was followed by a daddy-and-child dance competition, where representatives from nearly 20 barangays in Las Piñas took the stage, each hoping to take home the P20,000 prize.

The excitement continued into the final segment, a daddy-and-me lookalike competition, a lighthearted battle of genes that celebrated not just resemblance, but the bond passed from one generation to the next.

RUNNERS join an energizing zumba session setting the tone for the morning run.

Deeper purpose

For former senator Cynthia Villar, the event carried a deeper purpose beyond celebration.

The Children’s Farm itself was envisioned as a space where families could spend time together within the city while staying connected to nature. It offers children room to explore and play, while giving parents a place to pause and share time without the usual demands of urban life. That vision came alive during the event. The day was warm, the air heavy, yet the presence of trees and open spaces made it feel more bearable, more human.

Across the grounds, families explored different activities such as archery, pickleball, horseback riding, a zipline and a karting track.

The space also functions as a farm school, where visitors can learn about different stages of farming. It is not simply a venue, but a place that encourages growth, learning and community.

Among the many stories that day was that of a father and son, Diomarco and Marc. They arrived eager, taking photos to mark the occasion and simply enjoying each other’s company. For Diomarco, who regularly joins marathons, the run was another way of staying strong for the years ahead. For Marc, it was a chance to wish his father good health and share a moment that would stay with him.

DIOMARCO Gio and Marc take turns posing at the starting line before the run begins.

Throughout the course, participants moved with energy and encouragement. Smiles were exchanged, cheers were heard, and among them was an 81-year-old runner who proved that age is not a limit to showing up for what matters.

Sense of gratitude

Senator Camille Villar also shared a personal reflection on her father, former senator Manny Villar. She spoke of his beginnings in Tondo, Manila, and how he worked through different jobs while pursuing his education. Through persistence and determination, he built a path that would later inspire his family. She described him as the embodiment of sipag (diligence) and tiyaga (perseverance), values he passed down to his children and now carry into their own work in public service.

SENATOR Camille Villar shares a personal childhood memory with her father, former senator Manny Villar, while greeting fathers in attendance for their special day.

By the end of the day, what remained was not just the memory of activities, but a sense of gratitude. Fathers were given time to be present, to be celebrated, and to simply be themselves. In return, families were reminded of the strength and care that often go unspoken.

For every tatay who continues to show up, to support, and to believe, this day was a small way of saying thank you. And perhaps, a reminder that the moments we share are what truly stay with us.