A message to single moms, from single moms

MANILA, Philippines – They were called failures and disappointments. Behind their backs, they were labeled “malandi” (flirt) or “disgrasyada” (knocked-up).

Here’s what they have to say. Here are their messages for other single moms who struggle with believing in themselves. Messages for women struggling through the day: juggling a boss who demands attention and a child who needs it. Bills piling, wallet thinning. See-sawing between self-admonition and self-preservation. 

These women were given all kinds of advice too. They were told, get married ASAP. Find someone who will accept you for who are. Don’t be too aggressive. Focus on being good at home. 

But they really weren’t trying to be anything else, except themselves. And who were they? Mothers. Lovers. Independent spirits. Women.

These days, people say that a woman can have it all. Being a single mom, we’d say, is normal. But how many of us walk the talk? 

Some of us pity them. Some condemn them. Single moms say they still feel traces of the stigma against unwed women with kids. We put immense pressure on them to prove they can raise a child on their own.

Sit up, listen, and give them the respect they deserve. Know how it is to celebrate an empowered mother’s day – because these mothers do. – Rappler.com

Featuring (in alphabetical order):

• Pinky Aseron: Professor, UP Diliman
• Ava Española: Head for Fixed Wireless broadband, PLDT
• Carmi Inaudito: Special Accounts Officer for Online Casino, Paragon ICC Ltd.
• Marika Manlapus: Graduating Student
• Loreen Ordoño; FEIST Magazine executive
• Joann Pacheco: BDO Bank Officer
• Cha Roque, Creative Director, CLP videos