What moms really want on Mother’s Day
It’s Mother’s Day today—and really, what better way to celebrate than by hearing straight from the amazing women we’re honoring?
We asked a few moms to answer two simple questions: “What’s your favorite Mother’s Day memory?” and “How would you like to be celebrated this Mother’s Day?”
Their stories are sweet, funny, and full of heart—just like the moms themselves. From handmade cards to surprise breakfasts, and even a few unexpected—but happy—tears, these little moments remind us why today is special. Whether you’re treating your own mom, being celebrated yourself, or just soaking it all in, these reflections are sure to make you smile.
“Every single Mother’s Day celebration is my favorite, because Mother’s Day is when I get tighter-than-usual hugs and the sweetest kisses from my boys. Always a treat. While flowers, cakes, gifts, and fancy dinners are all sweet and nice, my kind of Mother’s Day celebration doesn’t carry a hefty price tag. Feeling extra loved and appreciated by my boys is more than enough for me. A simple meal with a glass or two of good wine wouldn’t hurt, though.”
—Malou Jumilla-Solamo, mom of two
“My favorite Mother’s Day memory was the one I spent with my mom and sister in 2015. It was the first time the three of us were together on Mother’s Day. We were so happy—we had dinner, drank coffee, and had super bonding time! Little did we know it would be the first and last, as our mom passed away the following year. Still, I’m grateful I got to celebrate with her.
Another favorite was in 2017, when my husband Jun surprised me with a bouquet of flowers. We were at SM Aura when he excused himself to ‘go to the restroom’ and told me to meet him downstairs. As I was going down the escalator, I saw him waiting—with my favorite flowers. When I got close, he hugged and kissed me and said, ‘Thank you. I love you. Happy Mother’s Day!’ That was so unexpected because Jun is super introverted. But that moment made me think, I must’ve done something good to deserve someone I’m still in love with—and who loves me back just as much.
This year, I just want a park picnic. We haven’t done that yet. But since it’s summer and it’s super hot, maybe an ice cream party at home instead—with all our favorite flavors—then play Uno or board games. Strictly no cell phones! I also plan to give them notepads to write their Top 5 moments with me. I’ll save those notes in a bottle marked 2025. For gifts, handwritten letters would be perfect.”
—Rochelle Macapili-Ona, mom of two
“My favorite Mother’s Day memory was in 2022. I had just returned from a long and exhausting flight. Before I could enter the house, my partner and son surprised me with flowers. I’ll never forget how adorable my son looked—he wore formal attire with a bow tie and fedora hat. In the sweetest voice, he handed me the flowers and said, ‘Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy!’ I didn’t expect it at all. Nawala ang pagod ko. It reminded me of how special and blessed I was.
As a flight attendant, I know that time is the most precious gift I could receive. This year, I’d love a simple Mother’s Day out with my family—nothing fancy, just time together.”
—Diana Torres, mom of one
“My favorite Mother’s Day was my first. We spent the day just being a family of three—I was basking in that ‘first-time mom’ feeling. I remember looking out the window, taking it all in, and thinking, ‘I finally have my little family.’ I felt so lucky. Then, my second son came along and doubled that joy. It made me realize how truly blessed I am to be a mom.
Now that my two sons are adults, I just want a simple celebration. Maybe a nature hike or a walk together—something peaceful and completely free. Just us, strolling and catching up.”
—Florence Inocencio-Cabigting, mom of two
“When my sons were little, on Mother’s Day, they used to give me handmade cards with their drawings and a note that said, ‘I love you, Mommy!’
This year, I don’t want anything fancy, just a break from all household chores. I also just want to relax and spend quality time with my hubby and my two sons—just stay at home, watch a movie or two on Netflix, and order out food from breakfast till dinner. A trip to a spa for a massage would also be great.”
—Divine Buenaventura, mom of two
“I don’t have a particular Mother’s Day memory that stands out, but I do miss the days when my kids made their own cards for me. I remember once, my second child—the sweetest of the three—gave me a handmade bracelet.
For me, every day is Mother’s Day. This year, I would love to celebrate it by just having the usual lunch or dinner—or maybe a road trip. Honestly, just knowing they’re studying hard and growing up well—that’s already more than enough for me.”
—Minerva Catapang-Villanueva, mom of three
“My favorite Mother’s Day memory was in May 2021, when my kids made me breakfast for the first time. We were in our Bulacan home and they cooked pancakes and bacon. I woke up to a fully set table. They even washed all the dishes after. It was such a sweet surprise.
This year, I’d love to have a simple picnic at the park—with zero gadgets! Just us enjoying the moment.”
—Jocelyn San Pedro, mom of three
“Six years ago on Mother’s Day, my son sent me a message on Facebook. He sent a file—a love letter he had written for me, side by side with a photo of us together. He’s usually private and doesn’t like me posting about him on social media, but that day, he gave me permission to share it. That meant the world to me.
This year, I’d love a coffee date with my son. We can hear Mass together first, then enjoy coffee afterward.”
—Cathy Sarmiento-Brosas, mom of one
“My husband and I had had a long-distance relationship for quite a while, so my favorite Mother’s Day memory was when we got to celebrate it together for the first time here in the US, with our daughter Cattleya. They gave me a card and a bouquet of roses, and we had lunch at a restaurant overlooking the ocean.
This year, I’d love to go to the beach and eat out again. My husband knows how much I enjoy breakfast, so he usually prepares a special one for me on Mother’s Day.”
—Karen Valeza-Tungol, mom of one
“The memory of Mother’s Day during the pandemic is dear to my heart. Despite the restrictions of not being able to go out to buy any materials, my husband and three sons gave me handcrafted gifts with heartfelt messages. I was moved as I opened their gifts because I felt the love and effort they placed into each of them.
Last year was memorable, too. I celebrated with two of my siblings. After our Mama passed away, we’ve grown closer and found joy in making new memories together. It felt like we were mothers to each other, and it was beautiful.
This year, I want my family to remember how much I appreciate us hearing Mass together, visiting my mom’s grave, spending time with my mother-in-law, and eating whatever my family will prepare.”
—Khittz Neric, mom of three
“I always look forward to Mother’s Day because my kids always plan something. It usually involves flowers and a lovely dinner. But my favorite memory is from when my eldest was 6 and gave me a card made in school filled with doodles and a sweet message: ‘Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy! You are the best mom ever! I love you.’ Yes, it had a few spelling errors—but it was the best gift I could ask for. I loved it so much that for the next few days, she kept giving me one every day. It’s a memory I hold dear to my heart. From that day on, I knew I would spend the rest of my life trying to live up to those words and be the best mom I could be for my kids.
This year, I’d love a simple day with the whole family—a nice dinner, board games, maybe a movie, and church. These days, it’s rare for us to be complete. I’d love to just chat and see how much my kids have grown. And, honestly, I’d also love to receive a Mother’s Day card again. While I love the gifts my family buys for me, I miss the cute drawings and heartfelt notes. But most of all, I think I just miss having my kids be kids.”
—Annalyn Villafuerte, mom of three
