Dear Fellow Parents,
We want to believe our kids know better.
That when they say “kami na bahala,” we can actually let go.
But then something like this happens, and we’re reminded why they still need us.
June 17, 2025 | Tagaytay City | 12:50 AM
Five teens. Fresh out of Senior High School.
Nag-inom. Nag-road trip. May nagyayabang pa sa manibela.
Their van slammed into a car.
Inside that car was a young couple and a kind friend—the car owner—who just offered to drive them to the hospital.
The woman inside was 8 months pregnant.
She was just going for a routine check-up.
All three died. Including the unborn baby.
The five teens in the van?
Sugatan, pero buhay.
This isn’t just a tragic story.
It’s a warning. A gut punch.
And it could’ve been any of us.
What if it was our child behind the wheel?
Or our daughter crossing the street?
Or our family in that car?
We’re not here to blame. We’re here to reflect, because this is not the first time, and it won’t be the last… unless we step in.
Mga magulang, here’s what we must remember:
Freedom without maturity is dangerous.
Just because they’re of age, doesn’t mean they’re ready for adult decisions—like driving under pressure, handling alcohol, or knowing when to say no.
Conversations save lives.
Don’t stop reminding them. Even when they roll their eyes. Even when they say “Alam ko na po.” Uulitin mo pa rin.
It’s okay to say no.
You’re not being “KJ.” You’re being a parent. And sometimes, being unpopular is the price of keeping them safe.
Don’t give them the keys if they’re not ready.
Whether it’s a car or a big responsibility—make sure they can carry the weight.
This tragedy didn’t have to happen. But now that it has, let’s not waste the lesson.
Walang masama sa pagtitiwala kung tinuruan mong maging responsable.
And it starts at home, with us.
Let’s raise kids who know how to protect not just their own lives, but others’.
With love, concern, and urgency,
TheAsianparent Philippines